Private renting has grown across every UK region over the last 40 years, but the scale and pace are often misunderstood. This graphic shows how uneven that growth has been, shaped largely by the decline in social housing. Understanding this shift helps explain today’s housing balance and the choices ahead.

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.

This week’s property update looks at the latest £-per-square-foot trends, offering a snapshot of how the market is moving. While small shifts may not signal price changes, they reveal the evolving mix of homes for sale and provide valuable insight into overall market health and momentum.

This visual snapshot reveals how property values rarely move in unison. Some streets surge ahead, others advance more quietly, each following its own rhythm. It’s a reminder that markets are made of micro stories, where proximity alone doesn’t guarantee the same outcome.