Land Registry data reveals a steep year-on-year rise in fraudulent activity involving forged documentation, identity theft, and digital system loopholes. Properties with no mortgage or high equity have become prime targets, with £27 million in property value illegally transferred in 2024 alone.

Moving home isn’t just about the sale price. From legal fees to removals, there are plenty of extra costs to budget for. This guide covers the most commonly overlooked expenses so you can plan with confidence and avoid last-minute surprises. All costs in this guide are just an average and will vary depending on the complexity of the transaction and even where you live in the country so remember to ask for detailed costings.

Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming. With so much to consider—budgets, mortgages, legal paperwork, and finding the right property—it’s easy to feel lost in the process. This guide outlines the key things every first-time buyer should know before taking that first step onto the property ladder.

If your letting agent isn’t delivering, you don’t have to stay stuck. Switching agents is easier than many landlords realise and could protect your investment long-term. Here’s how the process works, and why September is the perfect time to act.