Being a landlord in 2025 comes with fresh challenges, from shifting regulations to changing tenant expectations. Whether you’re experienced or new to lettings, this checklist will help you stay compliant, competitive, and confident in the year ahead.

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.

Falling mortgage rates are bringing welcome relief to first-time buyers. Monthly repayments on the average UK first-time buyer mortgage are now around £355 less than three years ago — easing financial pressure and making homeownership feel more achievable for many ready to take their first step onto the property ladder.

If you’re planning to buy a home soon, you might assume the best place to start is on the property portals, Rightmove, Zoopla, or OnTheMarket. But the truth is, the savviest buyers are seeing homes long before they ever appear online. Here’s why registering with an agent puts you one step ahead.