Despite repeated attempts by government to address the London housing crisis, the rising number of empty homes across the UK remains unsolved. While thousands of properties sit vacant, local councils have resorted to increasing council tax premiums for owners. This tax-first strategy is not working. And leading property experts, including our CEO, have spoken out […]
The Government’s much-anticipated Leasehold and Freehold Reform Bill is expected to become law by the end of 2025. For London flat owners, investors, and buyers, it marks the most substantial shift in residential property law in a generation. This guide outlines the key legislative changes, their implications for the London leasehold market, and what you
Leasehold Reform 2025 – What Every London Flat Owner Needs to Know Read More »
By Elliot Rainbow, CEO of Ernest Brooks International The empty homes tax was meant to be a deterrent. It’s turned out to be little more than background noise. Since 2013, owners of long-term vacant homes have faced sliding council tax penalties of up to 300%. But over a decade later, the number of empty homes
Staging for Sale – The Investment That Pays Off In the fiercely competitive London property market, how your flat is presented can make all the difference between a quick sale at the right price or months of stagnation. Professional staging is no longer a luxury but a proven investment that delivers tangible returns.Ernest Brooks International
Staging for Sale – The Investment That Pays Off Read More »
Property aesthetics are no longer an afterthought-they’re a deal-maker. Whether buying, selling, or letting, interior presentation can dramatically influence perception, price, and pace of transaction. In 2025, buyers and tenants alike are leaning towards design schemes that blend wellness and functionality. Natural materials, biophilic elements (such as living walls or planters), and soft neutrals with
2025 Design Trends: What Buyers and Tenants Want Now Read More »
After several muted years, Prime Central London is once again making headlines-this time for positive reasons. Increased activity in Mayfair, Marylebone, Kensington and Belgravia suggests the ultra-prime sector is recovering from prolonged political and economic uncertainty. Buyers from the US, Middle East and Southeast Asia have re-entered the market with confidence, driven by favourable exchange
Prime Central London: A Sales Market Revival? Read More »
With a general election expected later this year – London property market policy is back on the agenda. From capital gains tax to planning reform and overseas buyer levies – all eyes are on party manifestos. At Ernest-Brooks International, we are already preparing clients for potential changes in landlord regulation, stamp duty and development incentives.
What the General Election Means for London Property Read More »
London’s rental market witnessed unprecedented growth throughout 2024, with surging demand pushing average rents to record highs across multiple zones. Several factors contributed to this trend, including tightened mortgage lending criteria, slower sales in certain micro-markets, and a growing population of international tenants seeking premium homes in prime postcodes. At EBI, we experienced a 23%
The 2024 Rental Boom: What’s Driving Demand? Read More »
First time buyers remain a crucial force in the London market – yet their behaviour has shifted significantly post Covid and amidst higher interest rates. Buyers are now favouring new build flats with energy efficiency, security and minimal maintenance. Zones 3 and 4 have grown in popularity – with key hotspots including Colindale, Woolwich, Southall
2024 First Time Buyer Trends – What’s Changed? Read More »
Despite talk of year round activity – seasonality still influences buyer behaviour. Summer remains a peak viewing period – especially for family buyers wanting to move before the new school term. Properties with outdoor space – terraces, balconies, gardens – command a premium during the warmer months. Ernest-Brooks International advises clients to prepare listings by
Selling in Summer – Why Timing Still Matters Read More »
Well designed interiors have a direct impact on rental yield. In 2024 – Ernest-Brooks International is seeing highest returns on properties with a neutral palette, smart lighting, practical storage and hotel style finishes. Renters want space efficiency and visual calm – so we advise against bold colours or over personalised decor. Instead – opt for
Interior Design for Maximum Rental Return – What Works in 2024 Read More »
Rental growth in London slowed slightly in early 2024 – but demand continues to outpace supply. Ernest-Brooks International data shows particular resilience in 1 and 2 bed properties in well connected locations – with Canary Wharf, White City and Stratford remaining top performers. Tenants have become more cost conscious, with budgets under pressure from inflation
2024 Rental Trends – What Landlords Need to Know Read More »
East London continues to transform – and savvy investors are watching closely. Stratford, Barking, Canning Town and Poplar are now firmly on the radar thanks to multi-billion pound regeneration pipelines, new transport infrastructure and improving local amenities. At Ernest-Brooks International, we’re actively tracking developments like Poplar Riverside, Barking Riverside and the Thameside West masterplan. These
East London Regeneration – Where the Smart Money is Headed Next Read More »
With the pound remaining weak and London house prices stabilising – 2024 presents a key opportunity for overseas investors. Ernest-Brooks International has seen renewed interest from Asia and the Middle East – especially from clients looking for trophy assets or stable rental income. Key considerations for foreign buyers include changes in non-dom tax treatment, stamp
What Overseas Buyers Need to Know About the London Market in 2024 Read More »
The start of 2024 saw continued recalibration in Prime Central London following the Bank of England’s interest rate increases in 2023. While some buyers initially paused, Ernest-Brooks International has noted a resurgence in strategic acquisitions, particularly among international investors seeking stability in London’s core postcodes. SW1, W1 and NW8 remain top performing areas, underpinned by
Navigating the Prime Central London Market Post-Interest Rate Hikes Read More »
Nearly 65,000 properties were marketed between the 8th December and the 11th January, most after the election. This being the largest monthly rise recorded at this time of year, it would appear that many of these new sellers are feeling a surge of optimism. Buyers are also optimistic, with a jump in demand since the
London recovery continues, boosted by post-election bounce Read More »