UK house prices reach new height of £293,999, however property market remains stable despite economic pressures and higher mortgage rates.
The UK government’s budget increases borrowing, expected to influence bond yields and influence mortgage rates. Housing funds are also updated, with £5bn allocated to affordable housing projects to expand housing supply.
Average house prices have seen a growth across various regions in the UK, with London being the most expensive area, surpassing an average price tag of £543,308. Northern Ireland has had the largest growth at an increase of 5.9%, whereas Scotland saw the lowest growth with an average of 1.9% and an average house price of £206,480.
First-time buyers receive a boost from the UK government budget, allowing for the mortgage guarantee scheme to become permanent for buyers with only a 5% deposit. However, starting from March 2022, the stamp duty exemption for first-time buyers will be revert to lower thresholds, which may apply financial pressure.
Expert advice for running a property or proptech start-up includes focusing on the right team and assembling supportive investors to help bring the vision to life. Connecting with key stakeholders in the industry and creating a personal brand can also be helpful to gain credibility and establish trustworthiness.
Property investors should also ensure they are aware of shifting tax landscape, and manage tax efficiently by setting up a limited company. Mortgages for landlords is easier to apply for when owning a limited company, providing clear share structure and up-to-date company accounts.
Start-ups are recommended to stay grounded in reality and have a deep understanding of the problem they are trying to solve and the market they are entering. The importance of pivoting and adapting rapidly cannot be underestimated.
Being user-friendly is integral to success, so adopting the right technology for user experience is critical as well as safeguarding user data, alongside setting defined objectives and a focused strategy.
Startups can strive by building relationships that can accelerate growth, in addition to building a resilient team culture and prioritising the collaboration with the right people.
Cash flow managements is vital when growth can be rapid, therefore whilst having a willingness to test and fail can lead to a stronger more customer-centric product, it is important to have set objectives and round-the-clock research is done to tackle any arising pain points.