What fees can tenants legally be charged?
Since the introduction of the Tenant Fees Act in June 2019, letting agents and landlords in England are no longer allowed to charge renters a wide range of fees. The legislation was introduced to create fairness and transparency for tenants, but it can still be confusing to know what is and isn’t allowed. Carpenter Surveyors set the record straight.
What is New Build Boost and how does it compare to Help to Buy?
The housing market has seen a major shift since the closure of the government’s Help to Buy scheme, leaving many prospective homeowners wondering what options remain. Stepping into that space is Gen H, a modern mortgage lender aiming to reimagine homeownership, with their new New Build Boost scheme. But what exactly is it, and how does it measure up to Help to Buy?
Why choose Carpenter Surveyors for your residential property survey and valuation?
If you're wondering why Carpenter Surveyors is a smart choice for your next residential survey or valuation, we’re confident we can provide a clear answer. Our clients choose us not just for what we do, but how we do it.
House Prices Hit a New Record in May 2025
As the Spring property market rolls on, the latest data from Rightmove reveals that the average asking price for a home in the UK has reached a new record high in May 2025 — now sitting just shy of £380,000.
The advantage of choosing local: Why working with surveyors in your area matters
Thorough preparation, the foundation of a quality survey. Preparing your home ahead of a survey may appear unnecessary, but it plays a vital role in ensuring a thorough and efficient inspection. In this article, Carpenter Surveyors look at the advantages of choosing a local surveyor for your residential property in the Midlands.
Carpenter Surveyors highlights top affordable family-friendly towns in the UK
At Carpenter Surveyors, we’re always watching the market to help families make informed decisions about their next move. That’s why we’re pleased to share insights from Zoopla’s latest 2025 report, which reveals the most popular and affordable towns for families across the UK.
Why Birmingham Is a Top Choice for First-Time Buyers in 2025
If you're a first-time buyer looking for the right place to set down roots, Birmingham should definitely be on your radar. According to a recent study by property portal Rightmove, the Midlands city has been ranked among the UK’s top 10 most sought-after locations for first-time buyers in 2025.
How to choose the right property survey: Essential advice from Carpenter Surveyors
Discover how to choose the right property survey when buying a home. Trusted Midlands surveyors since 1988. Save thousands with expert advice.
Carpenter Surveyors’ Ongoing Commitment to Giving Back: Supporting Save the Children
At Carpenter Surveyors, we believe that our company does not exist in isolation. As part of our ongoing Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) policy, we are committed not only to protecting the environment but also to supporting the communities around us.
UK House Prices hit a record high
Rightmove has just released its latest update, and house prices have hit a new record. If you're thinking of buying or selling, here's what it all means – with insights from our team at Carpenter Surveyors to help you make sense of the figures.
Do I really need a Home Survey?
Buying a home is a big deal – whether it’s your first time or you’re an experienced mover, it’s likely to be one of the largest purchases you’ll ever make. With that in mind, wouldn’t you want to know exactly what you’re buying into?
Eight out of ten homeowners uncertain about their home’s true value with two-thirds missing out on potential gains by wildly under-valuing their property
The data, which compared seller expectations with actual estate agent valuations, found that two-thirds of homeowners tend to undervalue their homes, missing out on potential gains. A third of homeowners who undervalued their property did so by £100,000 or more, leading to an unexpected windfall when they did sell.
Listed Buildings: Debunking Common Myths and Understanding Conservation
Listed buildings are an integral part of a nation’s architectural and cultural heritage. Their preservation ensures that future generations can appreciate the history and craftsmanship of past eras. However, there are many misconceptions surrounding Listed Buildings, their Regulations, and Conservation practices.
5 essential tips for first-time buyers in 2025
Purchasing your first home is a major milestone, but it can also feel daunting. With an ever-changing property market, being well-prepared in 2025 is key to making informed decisions. Here’s what every first-time buyer should know.
How to Navigate and Manage a Property Chain
So, you've found your dream home. But what happens if the property chain breaks, putting everything on hold? Here’s how to keep your home purchase moving smoothly.
House prices rise for the sixth month in a row: Will it continue?
According to Nationwide, the average UK property now worth £270,493 after rising by 3.9% over the past year. Will it continue to last?
Discover the hidden costs in your next home purchase
Your dream home has been found, and everything seems to be in order. It's also possible you are a seller who is looking for a new home to meet your growing needs and lifestyle. Is there a foundation crack, outdated wiring, or hidden leak hiding beneath the surface?
Rental homes by 2030 will require an EPC rating C
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings of C will be required for all rental properties by 2030 in order to "lift up to half a million households out of fuel poverty". Compared to the current minimum EPC standard of E, this is an increase.
What is the risk of buying a house without a survey? Here's what you need to know
If you're buying a house, you'll know there are a few additional costs beyond the purchase price. In addition to stamp duty and legal fees, you may have to pay mortgage fees, removal fees, and surveyors' fees. There maybe no surprise that some buyers cut corners and wonder if they need a survey when buying a house.
February & March are the best months to list a home for sale
New analysis from the UK’s biggest property website Rightmove, reveals that February and March are typically the best months to list a home for sale, based on the likelihood that the home goes on to sell successfully.