Rightmove, the UK’s largest property platform, has launched a beta version of AI-powered conversational property search, as it continues to enhance its property search experience. In close collaboration with Google Cloud and built with Google’s Gemini models, conversational search is available via the property search bar on Rightmove’s website homepage. The latest move further expands
There are “tentative signs” that the housing market in England and Wales is recovering from a months-long slowdown after uncertainty around the autumn budget and economic pressures, estate agents and surveyors have reported. The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (Rics) said its members were feeling more optimistic about the year ahead than at any time
Shon Pallickaleth (Image credit: Close Brothers Property Finance) Close Brothers Property Finance has appointed a business development director, strengthening its regional footprint across the Midlands, South West of England and Wales. Shon Pallickaleth joins from Lloyds Banking Group, where he spent 15 years. Most recently, he served as relationship director, leading the bank’s Real Estate
Key Takeaways Residential rental property earns more than 80% of its revenue from dwelling units and is used as living spaces for tenants. These properties can provide monthly cash flow and appreciate over time, making them an attractive investment option. Owners may benefit from tax advantages but face liquidity risks and management responsibilities. Engaging a
The average cost of a UK home passed £300,000 for the first time in January, as house prices increased at the fastest rate since November 2024. Data released by Halifax showed that house prices rose 0.7% month on month last month, the fastest rate since a 1.1% increase was recorded in November 2024. On an
The UK property market completed nearly 1.2 million transactions in 2025, marking the highest level in three years despite facing multiple challenges throughout the year, according to data from TwentyEA and market indices. The market navigated Stamp Duty Land Tax changes, slower-than-anticipated interest rate reductions due to persistent inflation, and uncertainty surrounding budget announcements that
Stay informed with free updates Simply sign up to the UK property myFT Digest — delivered directly to your inbox. Demand for UK rental properties was at its lowest in January for seven years, as improved affordability for first-time buyers and falling levels of immigration eased competition among tenants. Estate agents last month received an
Key Takeaways Commercial property is real estate used for profit-generating business activities like offices and retail spaces. Commercial leases often benefit property owners by passing expenses such as taxes and maintenance to tenants. Returns on commercial property investments can be higher than residential, with longer lease agreements providing stable income. Real estate investment trusts (REITs)
Plans to cap ground rent, end the sale of new leasehold flats and make it easier for existing leaseholders to move to commonhold form part of what the government has described as a ‘game-changing’ shake-up of the leasehold system. These changes build upon efforts to implement the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024. Here, Which?
Plans to cap ground rent, end the sale of new leasehold flats and make it easier for existing leaseholders to move to commonhold form part of what the government has described as a ‘game-changing’ shake-up of the leasehold system. These changes build upon efforts to implement the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024. Here, Which?