What’s Happening In The UK Property Market: April 2023

Posted in May 03 , 2023

Mortgage rates continue to edge down, the number of properties for sale is rising, and the UK’s priciest seaside town has been revealed. Read on to find out the latest property market news.

Mortgage Rates Creeping Down

Despite inflation remaining above 10%, and with interest rates expected to rise again in May, mortgage rates have bucked the trend and continued to edge lower.

Best Buy deals are currently available with rates of less than 4% – a stark contrast to the above 6.5% highs that followed then-chancellor Kwesi Kwarteng’s disastrous mini-budget last October.

The average rate on a two-year fixed-rate mortgage is currently 5.32%, however, some lenders have rates starting at 3.99%, and some five-year fixed-rate mortgages have an even more attractive rate of 3.92%.

Housing Market Bouncing Back as Number of Sellers Increases

The number of properties for sale has reached its highest level in more than two years, according to new figures released by Propertymark.

The organisation, representing more than 18,000 estate agents across the UK, reports that the average estate agent had 35 properties for sale per branch in March – the highest figure since January 2021. To put it into context, a year ago, each branch only had 20 properties on their books.

Propertymark also revealed that the number of house viewings increased in March – up by 21% from February’s figure – and the number of new buyers registering increased by more than 30% on average across each branch.

Frenzied Rental Market Continues to be Fuelled by Property Shortage

The limited number of homes to rent continues to be a major nationwide issue with no sign of letting up, according to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics).

Fierce competition among tenants for the few properties available is expected to drive rental prices up by an average of 4% over the coming months, adding to the pressure of the rising cost of living.

Rics’ monthly survey shows that growth in demand from renters was at a five-month high in March, and this issue is consistent across the UK, as an increasing number of landlords are deciding to sell their properties when renters move out rather than re-let them.

This follows a study from a leading estate agent, which claims that around 140,000 landlords sold their properties last year to fund their retirement, increasing the shortfall of rental properties on the market.

Their research also revealed that between 2010 and 2022, the number of landlords retiring each year had doubled. With around 924,000 landlords already aged over 65 and young people unlikely to be able to afford buy-to-let properties, the number of rental properties on the market is expected to continue falling for some time.

UK’s Priciest Seaside Town Revealed

Salcombe has overtaken Sandbanks as the UK’s priciest seaside town, according to figures released by Halifax.

The average house price in the Devon town was £1.2m in 2022, around £300,000 more than second-placed Sandbanks, where average prices were £952,692.

Seven of the top 10 on the list were in Devon and Cornwall, while at the other end of the scale, Greenock in Scotland was the cheapest seaside spot, with average prices of £97,608.

Nine of the 10 cheapest towns were north of the border, with the Northumberland town of Newbiggin-by-the-Sea being the only exception.

10 Fastest Places to Sell a Home Revealed

Leading property website Rightmove has revealed the UK’s top 10 places to sell your home the quickest.

On average, properties take 55 days to sell across the UK, but the Scottish town of Falkirk bucks the trend, with properties taking just 22 days to sell in the Stirlingshire town, which lies between Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Seven of the top 10 places are in Scotland, the fastest place in the UK to sell a property, at an average of 34 days across the country. Surprisingly, the slowest area to sell a property in the UK is currently London, where it takes 65 days on average.

Hall Green in Birmingham and St. George in Bristol are the joint-fastest places to sell a home in England, with an average of just 26 days.

For more local property news and updates and a more detailed overview of the London area, get in touch with Cribs Estates Ltd . We are your local property experts. Call us on 0203 441 1571 or email info@cribsestates.co.uk.

Shared on social media

Comments

Enquiry form

Latest Blogs

What Is Block Management? A Clear Guide

If you own a flat, live in an apartment building, or manage your block in the UK, you would have heard the term block management. What does this term mean, and who is responsible for it, and what are the services included in it? This guide answers all the questions to understand block management, whether you’re a leaseholder, freeholder, investor, or part of a Residents’ Management Company (RMC).What Is Block Management?Block management refers to managing daily events like maintenance and legal compliance of a residential building that contains multiple flats. It is different from standard property management, which focuses on individual tenancies, block management, and overlooks all aspects shared by residents. This includes:The structure of the buildingCommunal areasGardens and car parksFire safetyService charge budgetingHealth and safety complianceWho Is Responsible for Block Management?LandlordLandlord owns the building and is legally responsible for its safety, structure, and upkeep.Residents’ Management Company (RMC)Leaseholders collectively form an RMC to take control of the building’s management.Right to Manage (RTM) CompanyLeaseholders can legally take over management from the freeholder through the RTM process.Professional Block Management CompanyMost blocks appoint a managing agent because the role is complex and time-consuming. Duties include compliance with the Housing Act 2004, Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022, and Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.What Does Block Management Include?Building and Communal MaintenanceRoof and exterior repairsCleaning communal areasMaintaining lifts and gatesGardening and grounds upkeepLighting, corridors, and bin areasEmergency and planned repairsSafety and Legal ComplianceFire risk assessmentsEmergency lightingSmoke and heat alarms in communal areasAsbestos checksElectrical safety complianceManaging fire doors and escape routesFinancial & Service Charge ManagementIssuing and collecting service chargesPreparing annual budgetsManaging reserve (sinking) fundsProducing year-end accountsEnsuring transparency with leaseholdersInsurance & Contractor ManagementBuildings insurancePublic liability insuranceManaging repairsOverseeing contractors and maintenance teamsBlock Management vs Property ManagementMany owners confuse the two, but there is a clear difference:Block ManagementFocuses on the building and communal areas:Fire safetyService charge accountingCleaning and maintenanceStructural repairsProperty ManagementFocuses on individual flats:Tenant findingRent collectionTenancy agreementsRepairs inside the flatHow Much Does Block Management Cost?Costs vary depending on:Size of the buildingNumber of flatsAge and condition of the blockLevel of services requiredWhether lifts, concierge, or extensive grounds are includedTypical ranges across the UK:£150–£500 per flat, per year for basic blocks£800–£2,000+ per flat, per year for high-service or modern developmentsWhy Good Block Management MattersProfessional block management helps increase the property value and resident satisfaction. It ensures:The building stays legally compliantService charges remain fair and transparentRepairs are handled promptlyCommunal areas remain clean and safeLong-term maintenance planning protects the property’s valueSigns of Poor Block ManagementIf you notice any of the following, it may be time for a change:Rising service charges without explanationPoor communication from managing agentsSlow repairs or ignored maintenance requestsDirty or neglected communal areasSafety hazards such as broken lights or damaged fire doorsNo clarity on how service charges are being spentCribs Estates Block Management ServicesCribs Estates specialises in helping freeholders, RMCs, RTM companies, and landlords by offering:Clear and transparent service charge budgetingRegular inspections and fast repair handlingFull fire safety and legal compliance management24/7 emergency supportDedicated property managersAccurate financial reporting and contractor oversightFAQs About Block ManagementQ1: Can Renters challenge unreasonable service charges?Yes. Renters can challenge charges through the First-tier Tribunal if they believe costs are unfair or poorly managed.Q2: Do all blocks of flats need a managing agent?Not legally, but most buildings appoint one because the responsibilities are complex and require professional oversight.Q3: How often should service charge accounts be provided?Managing agents should provide annual accounts and regular updates throughout the year for transparency.

Fire Risk Assessment HMO London

Managing a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) comes with more safety protocols than standard rentals. The reason is that multiple unrelated tenants are living under one roof, so the risk factor increases, meaning every HMO will have to face strict compliance guidelines. But how often should a fire risk assessment be done in an HMO? And what does London law specifically expect from landlords? This guide gives a clear answer! What Is an HMO Fire Risk Assessment?A fire risk assessment HMO London is a detailed inspection designed to:Identify fire hazardsEvaluate the level of risk to tenantsEnsure escape routes and protection systems are adequateConfirm the property meets the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005Ensure compliance with HMO licensing regulationsIt covers areas like fire alarms, emergency lighting, fire doors, electrical safety, extinguishers, and tenant behaviour patterns.How Often Should a Fire Risk Assessment Be Done in an HMO?The government requires that all HMOs must have their fire risk assessment reviewed at least once a year. Whilst annual reviews are mandatory, most fire safety experts, including many London councils, recommend a complete reassessment every 3 years, especially for larger HMOs. This ensures your property stays compliant with changing regulations.When Should an HMO Fire Risk Assessment Be Updated Immediately?You must re-do or update the assessment sooner if any of the following occurs:1. Changes to the HMO LayoutIf you renovate, convert a loft, add walls, or modify rooms, the fire escape strategy changes like:Adding new bedroomsChanging the kitchen layoutPartitioning the living roomInstalling new heating or electrical systems2. New Tenants or Changes in OccupancyDifferent groups come with different risks like:Students may cook more oftenFamilies may have more electrical appliancesProfessionals may work from homeVulnerable tenants may require special escape planningA tenant profile shift means the fire risk assessment HMO London must be updated.3. A Fire Incident or Safety Concern OccursEven minor incidents like smoke activation require a new review. This helps identify causes and strengthen safety measures.4. Fire Safety Equipment Is Upgraded or ReplacedIf you install:New alarm systemsUpdated fire doorsFresh extinguishersAdditional emergency lighting5. London Fire Brigade or Council Requests a ReviewHMO licensing officers and fire inspectors often issue recommendations. If they instruct you to update your risk assessment, you must do it immediately.Why Regular Fire Risk Assessments Are Needed?London has one of the highest densities of HMOs in the UK, and councils enforce strict fire safety rules. Staying up to date protects:1. Tenant LivesHMOs have more cooking, more electrical load, more movement and higher fire risks.2. Your Legal CompliancePenalties for non-compliance include:Unlimited finesCriminal prosecutionHMO licence refusalProperty closure notices3. Your Insurance ValidityMost insurers require proof of an updated fire risk assessment for HMOs.4. Your Long-Term Property ValueA safe property is easier to insure, license, maintain, and rent at stable rates.How Cribs Estates Helps HMO Landlords?Cribs Estates is a trusted London-based hmo property managementand compliance service specialising in HMOs. We offer professional, fully documented, and council-approved fire risk assessments that help landlords stay legally compliant.Why HMO Landlords Choose Cribs Estates:We understand the risks associated with multi-tenant properties.Our fire risk assessment reports meet expectations for all boroughs including: Lambeth, Merton, Wandsworth, Haringey, Croydon, Sutton, Kingston, and more.Ideal for landlords applying for or renewing HMO licences.We provide complete fire safety support like: smoke alarm installation, fire door upgrades, emergency lighting, safety documentation, and annual reviews.Whether a small 3-bed HMO or a large 10+ room property, Cribs Estates provides cost-effective solutions.Who Should Perform an HMO Fire Risk Assessment?Choosing an expert ensures:Zero legal gapsAccurate hazard identificationSmooth HMO licence approvalsCompliance with local authority auditsCribs Estates is a reliable option because we specialise in HMO compliance.

Short Term Lets London: 1, 2, & 6 Month Rental Options Explained

London is among the busiest and most traditional cities in the world, so the demand for short-term lets in London for 1, 2, and 6 months is always high. Whether someone is relocating for work, waiting for property sale completion, or spending some short time in the city, landlords have now started to explore short-term and medium-term agreements as the best way to maximise occupancy time. This guide helps landlords and renters to know everything about short-term lettings in London, along with pricing expectations. How Many Short-Term Lets Are in London?These stays usually fall under:Short-term licences (1–2 months) for temporary work placement or relocation. Medium-term lets (2–6 months) for professionals and students. Short AST agreements (usually for 6 months) for living without a yearly contract.Is It Legal to Offer Short-Term Lets in London? London has a 90-day rule for holiday lets, which applies to nightly or weekly-style Airbnb accommodations. Properties in Greater London cannot be let for more than 90 days in a calendar year as short-term stays unless the landlord has planning permission. But for 1-6 month short-term lets, the rules are totally different: They typically follow a licence or AST agreementThey are considered residential stays, not holiday letsThe 90-day restriction does not applyNormal landlord regulations still must be followedLandlords must ensure:Gas and electrical safety certificatesDeposit protection (for ASTs)Right-to-Rent checksCouncil tax arrangementsProperty licensing is required in that boroughWho Uses Short-Term Lets in London?Typical users include:Professionals on project-based contractsStudents and interns staying for a semesterRelocating families waiting for their permanent homePeople between moves, such as after selling a propertyInternational arrivals needing accommodation while settlingCorporate travellers on short assignmentsCost for 1, 2, and 6 Month Lets in LondonPrices usually vary by borough, property size, and whether the bills should be included. In general, the cost includes: 1 Month Rental LondonShort stays are usually furnished and may include bills. Expect higher monthly costs due to flexibility and convenience.2 Months Let LondonOften slightly cheaper per month than 1-month stays because landlords prefer multi-month occupancy.6 Month Rental LondonThis is the most common type of short-term let and usually follows a standard AST agreement. Costs become more similar to long-term rentals but with greater flexibility.Typical factors affecting price include:Zone 1 & 2 properties cost significantly moreFurnished and fully serviced flats cost more than basic rentalsBills included can raise the monthly priceDemand in boroughs like Canary Wharf, Wimbledon, Clapham, and Kensington tends to stay highTenants should always check:If bills are includedWhether the stay is extendableDeposit termsInventory conditionMove-in fees (if any)Benefits of Short-Term Lets for RentersNo long-term commitmentFurnished and ready to move inBills often includedFaster approval process than long-term tenanciesAbility to extend or shorten stay in many casesBenefits for Landlords Offering Short-Term LetsHigher rental yields, especially in furnished flatsLower risk, as many tenants pay upfront for short staysGreater control over tenancy cyclesFlexibility to use the property between staysAbility to adjust pricing based on demandLandlords must still comply with licensing and safety rules, and reliable estate agents like Cribs Estates can help get higher rents compared to standard long-term lets.Best Areas in London for Short-Term LetsCanary Wharf for financial district workersCentral London for tourists, corporate travellersStratford for tech and business hubWimbledon, Morden, and Clapham are popular with families and commutersHammersmith & Fulham has excellent transport linksKensington & Chelsea for premium short-term clientsHow Cribs Estates HelpsCribs Estates specialises in short-term lets across London, offering flexible rental options for 1, 2, and 6-month stays. We support both tenants and landlords by:Providing fully vetted short-term and medium-term rental propertiesManaging the legal requirements and paperworkMatching landlords with reliable tenants quicklyEnsuring smooth move-in and move-out processesOffering furnished and part-furnished optionsWhether you are searching for a comfortable short stay or looking to let your property on a flexible basis, Cribs Estates ensures a seamless, compliant, and stress-free experience.

Renters Rights Bill Section 6B Loophole Explained

After the Renters’ Rights Bill, the UK rental sector continues to reshape; however, there is one clause that is still the centre of debate: Section 6 B. People are discussing the loopholes of this section, raising concerns about its usage or misuse by landlords and what it could mean for renters’ security. With so much discussion and confusion about Section 6B, this guide explains the issue in clarity and what it means for both landlords and tenants. What Is Section 6B in the Renters' Rights Bill? Section 6B is a clause that is linked with transitioning from a fixed-term tenancy to a periodic tenancy. The goal of the Renters’ Rights Bill is to ensure all future tenancies are periodic by default and give tenants the flexibility to move easily, and protect them from unfair eviction. In Section 6B, there are some scenarios where the landlord can recover possession of the property. These scenarios include: The landlord or a close family member needs to live in the property The landlord needs to sell the property Legal obligations requiring the landlord to regain possession The intention behind Section 6B is fairness: landlords retain essential rights whilst renters receive clearer notice periods and greater overall protection. What People Mean by the “Section 6B Loophole” In the market, the “section 6B loophole” is often described as a potential gap in the legislation that might allow some landlords to remove tenants more easily than intended. The concern is based on two main ideas: Landlords could claim they intend to sell the property:Even if the sale does not happen immediately, tenants worry that this creates a route to end the tenancy earlier than expected. Landlords could claim they need to move back into the home:People argue that intention is difficult to prove, creating fears of misuse. What Section 6B Actually Allows Section 6B is not a straightforward permission for landlords to evict tenants at will. The Bill’s wording is supported by additional clauses that outline: Clear Notice Periods Landlords must provide the proper legal notice, which ensures tenants have time to find alternative accommodation. Evidence Requirements Although it is not finalised, past legislative and parliamentary notes suggest that landlords may need to provide proof of intention, such as valuations, legal documents, or statements of legitimate need. Restrictions on Repeat Use A landlord who claims a Section 6B ground, such as moving in, may be prevented from re-letting the property for a specified period, which reduces incentives to misuse the rule. Potential Tribunal Challenges Tenants retain the ability to challenge unfair possession claims. If a tribunal finds misuse, penalties or restrictions may apply. Why Section 6B Feels Like a Loophole? 1. Overlapping Clauses Government Bills often leave areas flexible until secondary regulations are published, which creates uncertainty. 2. Tenant Security and Landlord Rights Tenants want long-term security; landlords need the ability to sell, move back, or manage their properties. It can be misused by both in certain ways 3. Past Experiences With Section 21 Because of Section 21, "no-fault" evictions are being abolished, so some renters fear any new type of possession ground may become a replacement for them. How Tenants Could Be Affected Renters may experience some practical challenges stemming from Section 6B, such as: Greater uncertainty during transitional periods, whilst the Bill is being implemented Confusion over notice periods and how they differ from current rules Concerns about the legitimacy of a landlord’s stated reason for seeking possession However, renters also have substantial protections: Written notice must always be provided Tenants can legally challenge grounds believed to be misused Landlords must follow strict legal processes Repeat misuse is restricted or penalised Overall, the clause does not remove tenant rights; it changes the structure of how possession is granted. Cribs Estates Ltd can help the renters clear all confusion and utilise the clause in the best way. How Section 6B Impacts Landlords For landlords, Section 6B offers the right flexibility when they: Need to move back into a property due to family changes Sell a property to deal with financial or legal obligations End a tenancy where renovation or legal compliance requires possession Landlords must still: Provide the correct notice Ensure the reason is genuine Comply with the broader Renters’ Rights Bill Provide evidence if challenged Failure to follow the rules could lead to penalties, tribunal disputes, or restrictions on future letting. What the UK Government Has Said So Far The Bill is undergoing review and amendments. As per parliamentary discussions: Penalties for misuse could be increased Clarifications will likely be included to reduce debatable areas Tenant safeguards remain a priority Is There Really a Renters’ Rights Bill Section 6B Loophole? In reality, Section 6B is not a loophole, but a grey area due to early drafting. The grounds used for possession are legitimate and are already in use in many European tenancy legislations. Cribs Estates Ltd helps landlords and tenants to avoid misuse of any legal rules so it can be challenged in case it's unfair. The debate will continue until the Bill’s final version is published, but for now, Section 6B remains a balanced part of a much larger reform effort by the government to ensure tenants don't have to face unfair evictions. Read More: hmo property management london

Property search

Residential Lettings

Residential Sales

HMO

Commercial Sales Commercial Lettings

Price

Min price

Max price

Number of Bedrooms

Min bedrooms

Max bedrooms

Find properties