Propertymark has highlighted the challenges property agents face when identifying the hidden influence of Designated Persons in transactions. The Office for Financial Sanctions Implementation (OFSI) is examining how the rules are applied in practice, and we’ve been clear that whilst agents are committed to preventing financial crime, the current expectations are often difficult to meet.

Reports have emerged that the Chancellor is considering the introduction of short-term rent controls in England as part of efforts to ease the cost of living. Propertymark recognises the financial pressures facing tenants and the need for the UK Government to act to support households. However, rent controls risk producing unintended outcomes that disadvantage both tenants and landlords.

Transactions are taking longer than at any point in recent years, creating uncertainty for consumers and placing additional pressure on property agents working to keep chains together. Although market activity is showing some resilience, movers are facing waits of up to 17 weeks to exchange, exposing ongoing inefficiencies in the system.

The housing market shows steady activity, ongoing challenges with sales agreed rising slightly and stock levels stable, while affordability pressures and longer transaction times continue to strain buyers and sellers. Demand is strong in the rental sector, with significant competition among tenants despite only a modest increase in available properties. Rents have remained relatively stable month to month.

Property agencies can face a variety of risks in their everyday operations, many of which may lead to liability claims when unexpected incidents occur. Whether supporting staff, handling client interactions, conducting property viewings, or managing office operations, unforeseen events can have considerable impact on the business. A liability claim may result in financial strain, operational disruption and reputational damage. For property agents, understanding these exposures is an important step in managing risk effectively. Gallagher, Propertymark's insurance supplier, shares insight into the risks property agents may face and the types of protection that can help keep businesses resilient.

Policymakers in Northern Ireland must ensure landlords can regain possession of their properties efficiently, following the Department for Communities (DfC) proposals to increase standard notice periods for tenants to up to six months, alongside exemptions where shorter notice periods would still apply.

Tackling empty homes is a practical and achievable way to increase housing supply without relying solely on new development. By combining stronger local action, targeted incentives, and clearer national direction, governments can unlock the potential of existing housing stock and support more people into secure homes.

The UK has more than 359,000 homes sitting empty for over six months. Long-term vacancy represents a wasted asset at a time of acute housing need, while also contributing to social decline, increased maintenance costs, and reduced local investment. A more strategic, well-resourced approach is essential to bring empty properties back into use and support thriving, sustainable communities.

The appointees join the board after an intensive and robust recruitment process. The Trust is the official charity of Propertymark, supporting estate and letting agents through life’s toughest moments.

Propertymark is inviting member agents to apply for a place on the REACH UK Agent Advisory Board, offering a direct role in shaping and testing the next generation of property technology. The Board builds on a proven model that gives agents early access to emerging solutions and the opportunity to influence how they are developed and deployed in real agency settings.

When it comes to deposit disputes in the private rental sector, one thing matters above all else: evidence. Not opinion. Not memory. And certainly not assumptions. What matters is time stamped, detailed and impartial documentation that shows exactly what condition a property was in at the start and end of a tenancy. Propertymark Industry Supplier, Inventory Hive, explains why inventory reports matter so much, what makes them stand up to scrutiny, and what can cause them to fall apart in front of a deposit adjudicator.

From 6 April, 125,000 landlords and sole traders in the property sector must use Making Tax Digital (MTD) software, in the biggest change to the Self-Assessment system since 1997. Support is available to those impacted, and HMRC has confirmed that no penalties will be issued for late quarterly updates in the 2026 to 2027 tax year as the system beds in.

For many buyers and renters, the start of 2026 still feels like a balancing act between opportunity and affordability. With interest rates now fluctuating and borrowing costs still elevated compared to previous years, people continue to approach moves cautiously.

Prioritising clear, proactive communication, ensuring transparent agreements and fees, and keeping robust records of actions and transactions are the top ways agents can reduce the likelihood of complaints escalating to formal disputes in an increasingly regulated housing market. The findings from The Property Ombudsman (TPO) reinforce the value of strong training, clear processes, and high service standards in maintaining trust with consumers and protecting the reputation of the sector.

The 2025 data reveal a sharp rise in consumer complaints across the property sector, with a 47% increase compared with 2024 and a 77% rise since 2023. While many cases are resolved quickly, the figures highlight the types of issues that most often lead to disputes and where improvements can help prevent problems from escalating.