Docklands News

The recent changes to non-dom tax rules have significantly impacted London's prime housing market, leading to a 35.8% drop in transactions in May compared to the previous year. 

Financial Times (21/06/2025)  

The Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is set to review lenders' risk-taking to enhance home ownership in the UK. The regulator aims to initiate a "public conversation" regarding the "future of the mortgage market" to support economic growth through revised mortgage rules. The FCA's focus includes broadening access for underserved groups, such as first-time buyers and the self-employed. According to the latest Financial Lives survey, only 29% of adults own their homes, a decline from 33% in 2023. David Geale, executive director at the FCA, commented: "We want to evolve our mortgage rules to help more people access sustainable home ownership." The consultation will explore ways to reduce borrowing costs and improve access to affordable mortgage products. The Times notes that the FCA will also consider reforms that could allow renters to use their rental payment history as proof of their ability to afford a mortgage. 

City AM (25/06/2025)   The Standard (25/06/2025)   The Times (25/06/2025)  

Research indicates that poorly maintained neighbouring properties can significantly reduce house prices, with an average loss of £43,000 or 16% in value. In London, the impact is even more pronounced, potentially costing sellers up to £89,000. Sarah Khan, head of Churchill Home Insurance, commented: "Unfortunately, no matter how well presented your house is, a messy or poorly maintained neighbouring property can have a significant, detrimental impact on your sale price." The study, conducted by Censuswide, surveyed 500 estate agents and highlighted the importance of maintaining good relationships with neighbours to enhance property values. Sellers are encouraged to engage with their neighbours to address maintenance issues, as even minor improvements can boost curb appeal and sale prices. 

Daily Mail (24/06/2025)  

St James has unveiled a new show apartment at Bow Green, E3, nestled in the Golden Triangle between The City, Canary Wharf, and Stratford. The new development features around 1,450 homes located set amidst acres of landscaped gardens. The show home has been designed to inspire, and aims to reflect the East London lifestyle through a standout collaboration with local artist Juanjo Barreda Aznar. Interior designer, Emily Bateson-Roseberry, of Burbeck Interiors, said: “I imagined future residents grabbing a coffee from a neighbourhood favourite, spending Sunday mornings at Columbia Road Flower Market, or potentially searching for their first home – that vision shaped everything". Homes at Bow Green are on sale now, priced from £550,000.

London Daily News (19/06/2025)  

UK House prices fell 2.7% month-on-month in April, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The average property value dropped by over £7,000, from £272,862 in March to £265,497 in April. Year-on-year, prices were up 3.5% in April compared to 7% in March. The ONS said the month-on-month drop came as taxes rose, with the stamp duty holiday for first-time buyers coming to an end on March 31. The average house price in London rose 2.6%, or 3.3% on an annual basis, to £566,814. In Tower Hamlets it was up 2.6% to £495,733, but fell 5.2% in Newham to £415,409.

City AM (18/06/2025)   The Daily Telegraph (18/06/2025)   The Standard (18/06/2025)   The Times (18/06/2025)  

UK families are capitalising on reduced competition and price drops to snap up luxury London homes, as international buyers retreat due to new tax regulations.

Financial Times (14/06/2025)