Rural house prices are still rising faster than those in towns and cities, according to Nationwide. While the pandemic-driven rush for countryside homes has eased, demand for space continues to support stronger growth in rural areas.

Japanese knotweed is one of the UK’s most aggressive invasive plants and a serious concern for homeowners. While it rarely damages structurally sound properties, it can still cause significant problems if left untreated.

The number of UK homeowners with more than £300,000 left to repay on their mortgage has nearly doubled in the past seven years, highlighting the growing financial strain many are facing, amid high property prices and rising interest rates.

Japanese knotweed isn’t just a garden problem—it can derail mortgage applications and lower property value. Here’s how to manage it properly.

House prices crept up again in May, with Nationwide reporting annual growth of 3.5%, slightly above April’s 3.4%. Prices also rose 0.5% month on month, once seasonal factors were taken into account.

Nearly two-thirds of UK homebuyers faced unexpected costs in the past year, according to recent research.