The cost of building is highly likely to become more expensive as a result of the rise of the Bank of England base rate. At the beginning of the month the bank’s committee voted to increase the base interest rate from 0.25% to 0.5% and it is said that this could cause some lenders to… Read more
While there is a constant reminder that there is a shortage of affordable housing in London and the South East, it seems that the specialist finance industry has done a meaningful amount to address this. We are aware that it is the small and medium sized businesses that effectively contribute and drive the UK market,… Read more
Basement Developments have become an increasingly popular way to add value or expand a property. A recent report found that planning applications for basements had risen by 183% since 2012. If it is done correctly, a very high quality basement conversion can add substantial value to a property, done incorrectly and there will be an… Read more
Mezzanine finance is made up of two elements and is part-equity and part debt solution. It takes second priority in repayments after the senior debt, and takes a second charge over a property. Mezzanine finance is mainly used by borrowers with little liquid assets as it reduces the amount of equity investment that the project… Read more
Whether your a landlord, mortgage broker, or just have an interest in the Buy to Let market, you will need to know about the planned Prudential Regulation Authority changes.The new standards will be applied by 30th September 2017 and we have summarised below how they will affect Buy to Let mortgage applications.Portfolio Landlords: The PRA… Read more
Many property investors and associated professionals will already be aware of the governments ambition to reduce the number of private BTL landlords in the market in favour of the more larger and institutional investors. Whilst professionalising investors in the market could have positive effects for tenants (who could benefit from better services and more responsible… Read more
Markets, economists and other experts haven’t had a great record of making the right calls in recent years. Indicators such as higher inflation, low unemployment and high levels of consumer debt are driving sentiment towards a slow but steady rise in Bank of England base rate. At the last meeting of the Bank of England… Read more
Are you or your clients looking to purchase a new property? Have you considered buying at auction? Buying Commercial or Residential properties at auction is becoming increasingly common, as investors and developers are attracted by apparent bargains on offer. However, there are many pitfalls for the unwary. At Key, we have seen many examples of properties… Read more
Modular housing could help reduce the impact of rising material and labour costs, which has been forecast to hit housebuilders following Brexit. With the UK deciding to leave the EU, a fall in the value of the pound, increased trading tariffs on raw materials from Europe, and the end of the freedom of movement- could… Read more
For many years the majority of lenders have primarily assessed quantum of lending by reference to GDV (Gross Development Value) . The majority of lenders allow borrowing to a maximum of 55% and in some cases even 60% of GDV, with interest added on top. It is a reflection with the increasing competitive funding market… Read more