The UK housing market has entered the final part of the year on a cautious but surprisingly resilient footing, with house prices remaining unchanged in September despite continued pressure from mortgage rates, household costs and wider economic uncertainty.

The Conservatives have unveiled a series of proposals aimed at reducing taxation and regulation, with housing and housebuilding featuring prominently within their plans. The party has described the wider programme as the “biggest deregulation project in a generation”, with proposals including abolishing stamp duty on property purchases.

A fresh coat of paint can help, but missing paperwork can delay a sale for months. Use August to prepare the information buyers and solicitors will need before an offer is agreed.

There are significant changes ahead for landlords and the private rented sector in England, with the Government now providing greater clarity around the introduction of the new national rental property registration service.