New data indicates that first-time buyers (FTBs) are taking out longer mortgages to help them move straight into their ‘forever home’.

 In August, a third (33.5%) of FTBs bought a semi-detached property, up 1.7% when compared with the same month in 2024. Meanwhile, only 19% purchased a flat, representing a 2.7% annual decline.

Millions of UK homeowners are choosing to renovate their existing home instead of moving.

 In England and Wales, about 1.7 million homes (one in 15 properties) have undergone significant renovation work. These homes are marked with ‘official improvement indicators’, showing that they have had major structural changes, such as an extension or loft conversion.

We’ve talked about Categories A to C—now let’s look at RICS Category D, which covers Japanese Knotweed growing on neighbouring land, not on your property.

Even if knotweed isn’t inside your boundary, lenders and surveyors still pay attention. That’s because there’s a chance it could spread—especially if it’s close by and not being managed.

The good news? Category D is considered low risk.

Data from the Office of National Statistics shows that the average monthly mortgage repayment has surpassed £1,000 for the first time on record.

 In August, the typical monthly payment reached £1,002.27, indicating that, despite some cuts to Bank Rate over the last year, homeowners are still facing affordability challenges due to higher inflation.

Data shows that the number of people buying a home with a Lifetime ISA (known as LISA) increased in the 2024/25 tax year.

 According to the statistics, 82,750 account holders withdrew money from their LISA to buy their first home, which is about 30,500 more than in the previous tax year. Also, the average withdrawal for a property purchase increased by around £857 to £15,782 in 2024/25. 

Securing a mortgage on a house affected by Japanese knotweed is tricky—but not impossible. I recently helped a client buying a property in Haslemere where knotweed was found 10m from the house, within the boundary.

Neither the client nor I knew of its presence when applying. It only surfaced during a structural survey. The case was already complex due to self-employed income and finding a lender offering sufficient funds.

Research has revealed the best UK commuter towns, offering lower house prices whilst being in proximity to major cities.

In July, the Labour government’s permanent Mortgage Guarantee Scheme became available, after the previous iteration supported over 56,000 mortgage completions.

 The old scheme, which ran from April 2021 to March 2025, was launched by Boris Johnson’s Conservative government. It helped 56,389 people to access mortgages with smaller deposits, with 3,180 completions in Q1 of this year.

Last time we looked at RICS Category B. This time we take a look at RICS Category C.

If Japanese Knotweed has been found on your property but isn’t causing any damage, it likely falls under RICS Category C.

Over 760,000 borrowers will be considering their mortgage options as their fixed-rate deals come to an end this year.

 Those with five-year deals about to expire may be anticipating sharp rises in their monthly bills; they will have fixed their mortgage in 2020, when interest rates were as low as 1.4%. Since then, rates have soared, meaning payments could increase by up to £300 a month.

A survey of homeowners has highlighted the savvy behaviours of today’s first-time buyers (FTBs).

 The report found that over half of FTBs are opting to buy a studio flat or a home with one or two bedrooms. Also, 67% said they purchased a property in an area they were unfamiliar with due to affordability challenges and a lack of suitable properties.

One of the first properties I assessed with a potential Japanese Knotweed problem was a new-build home in Waterlooville, Hampshire. Knotweed was found along the northern boundary and in the neighbouring school field, covering around 100 square metres.

HMRC has warned buyers to be cautious of tax agents making false claims about Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT).

 Some homeowners have been wrongly advised that properties in need of repair are uninhabitable, so are eligible for non-residential rates of SDLT. Rogue agents are suggesting that, for a fee, they can secure a tax refund on behalf of the buyer. 

Last week we looked at RICS Category A. This week we are looking at RICS Category B.

If Japanese Knotweed is starting to take over your outdoor space but hasn’t yet caused structural damage, it may be classed as RICS Category B.

This category applies when knotweed is within the property boundary and is starting to affect how you use your garden or outside space. It might be growing quickly, blocking access, or spreading near paths, fences, or patios. While it hasn’t damaged your home, it’s clearly a problem—and lenders will want to see action.

Over the last year, house prices have increased 5.3 times faster than the rate of earnings.

 The average house price has increased by £10,087 to £271,403. However, the typical annual salary has only gone up by £1,921 to £40,334. The East of England and the East Midlands have experienced the most significant disparity, with house prices outstripping earnings by 6.7 times. Scotland (6.4 times), Wales (6.3 times) and Yorkshire and the Humber were also significantly affected (5.8 times).

Over the next few weeks, we’ll be looking at the 4 different RICS Categories from A to D. This week we start with RICS Category A.

If you're house hunting and come across a property with Japanese Knotweed causing visible damage, it's likely classed as RICS Category A—the most serious level of infestation.

If you find it difficult to understand leasehold and freehold, you’re not alone.

 Research has found that leasehold is the UK’s most confusing property term, with the term generating over 160,000 Google searches in the last year. Freehold was second on the list, accounting for 114,000 searches.

Buying a property affected by Japanese knotweed can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. This invasive plant can damage drains, foundations, and garden walls—causing mortgage lenders to be cautious. Still, with the right steps, it’s possible to get approved.

Why Are Lenders Concerned?

Knotweed spreads aggressively and can impact a property’s value and structure. Some lenders may decline a mortgage if it’s found on or near the property. Others may approve—if proper measures are taken.

It was a busy summer of news for the housing market – here’s what you need to know.

 In August, the Bank of England (BoE) reduced Bank Rate from 4.25% to 4%. This is the lowest level in two years and the fifth cut since August 2024. However, the decision wasn’t straightforward as the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) required two rounds of votes to reach a majority. Ultimately, five members were in favour of lowering the rate, while four wanted to hold it at 4.25%.

If you're buying or selling a property with Japanese Knotweed, a Knotweed Management Plan isn’t just a good idea—it’s essential. Most mortgage lenders won’t even consider approving a loan without one, especially if the knotweed is within the property boundary. In some cases, even knotweed on a neighbouring property can raise red flags.