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.

If you want to move in 2026, positioning yourself as a serious buyer is essential. Here’s how to put yourself ahead of the competition and be taken seriously by sellers.

A delightful two-bedroom home with an open front outlook over open greensward, lounge features a cosy open fireplace, a sleek kitchen/diner flowing into an outside garden room, modern bathroom, generous storage, low-maintenance garden and private parking. Warm, stylish and ready to enjoy.

This map highlights the average size of homes sold across the UK since 2020, measured in square feet from completed sales. What stands out is how little the averages vary between regions, despite very different housing types. Northern Ireland is the clear exception, with noticeably larger homes on average.