A new £2m-plus home surcharge is billed as progressive, but its impact falls mainly on London and the South East, where many owners now face an annual bill from 2028. Critics warn it punishes long-term residents, cools the prime market and deepens regional divides, even as households weigh downsizing. Many fear a new cliff edge at £2m too.

Placing your home on the market in December can set you up for a stronger, faster sale in early 2026. With fewer competing listings and highly motivated buyers still searching, December offers a rare opportunity to stand out, attract serious interest, and get ahead of the busy new-year property rush.

If you’re planning to sell in early 2026, now is the time to understand the timeline, the preparation and the steps that will help you move smoothly from listing to completion.

With ongoing reforms and rising compliance demands across the UK, managing a rental property alone is becoming increasingly complex. Here’s why professional management now matters more than ever.