Positive start for landlords

Landlords have reason to be optimistic as a recent survey predicts house price growth of 3% plus in 2018. Those in the UK's top 20 cities have even more reason to cheer, as they have been forecast 5% plus growth.

As every landlord knows 2017 was indeed a very hard and stressful year, these future predictions in property values will no doubt give all concerned a boost.

This is in line with the projection for 2017 of 4% growth due to a pick-up in regional housing markets offsetting weak price growth in London. Large regional cities could register house price rises of up to 25% over the next two to three years. The likes of Manchester, Birmingham and Glasgow have seen market activity increase, and this has delivered above average price growth of 6-8% for the last 12 months.

In contrast, while London has seen a 70% increase in house prices since 2009, it is facing a drawn-out period where house prices and earnings need to re-align.

With all the tax hikes introduced by the Government over the last year this will come as very welcome news.

Mortgage providers are still very interested in the buy-to-let market and rates are very reasonable compared to some 5 years ago. Word has it that rates may be about to increase over the next year or so. Good news is there are some very advantageous longer term fixed deals on offer, reviewing your current deals could be a very shrewd move for 2018.

If you are looking for a new or re-mortgage, please do make contact and one of our advisers will be happy to assist.