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Published: Dec 5, 2025

Where to buy in 2026?

The Hottest Up-and-Coming Areas in the North West

Choosing the right location is more important than ever when you’re thinking “where should I buy my new property in 2026”. With increasing regional variation across the UK, doing your homework on local market trends, transport links, schools, lifestyle and community feel can make a real difference to long-term satisfaction, and resale value. 

In 2026, the North West of England stands out for its strong market fundamentals, relative affordability compared with the South, and several emerging hotspots that combine lifestyle appeal with growth potential.

In this article, we highlight up-and-coming areas in the North West where buyers may find significant value, from coastal towns to commuter belts, and show what to look out for depending on your budget, lifestyle and ambitions.

The Autumn Budget 2025

The Autumn Budget 2025

The 2025 UK Autumn Budget, delivered amid much speculation, has finally set the direction for how property will be taxed and regulated over the coming years. For many people from first-time...

Introduction

The 2025 UK Autumn Budget, delivered amid much speculation, has finally set the direction for how property will be taxed and regulated over the coming years. For many people from first-time buyers to long-term property investors, the implications could be significant.

With a new “mansion tax,” higher taxes on rental income, and no changes to certain long-standing levies such as stamp duty, the Budget sets a mixed picture. In this article, Arnold & Phillips break down the key announcements and explain what they mean for different types of people in the UK property market: buyers, sellers, renters and investors.

Whether you're thinking of buying your first home, selling up, renting, or investing, knowing these changes will help you plan ahead intelligently.

 

Key Announcements from the Autumn Budget 2025

Mansion Tax (High Value Council Tax Surcharge)

The Budget confirmed a new annual surcharge for high-value homes: properties in England worth £2 million or more will be hit by a “mansion tax” from April 2028.

The surcharge is tiered depending on property value.

According to government estimates, the charge is expected to raise approximately £400 million per year once fully implemented.

Increase in Tax on Rental (Property) Income

For landlords and buy-to-let investors: from 6 April 2027, tax on rental income will go up by 2 percentage points across all bands.

This means property income tax rates will become: 22% (basic), 42% (higher), 47% (additional).

The change applies to private rental income including short-term lets and may squeeze net returns for landlords.

Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) and Transaction Costs

Contrary to some speculation, there were no changes to stamp duty thresholds or rates in this Budget.

That means buyers under the £2 million mark can proceed knowing upfront purchase costs remain the same for now.

Broader Tax Policy: Frozen Thresholds & Fiscal Drag

The Budget also extended the freeze on income tax thresholds, which increases the risk of “fiscal drag”: more taxpayers being pushed into higher rate bands as wages rise.

This could have indirect effects for certain buyers, landlords and investors.

 

 

What This Means for Different Groups in the Property Market

For Home Buyers (Owner-Occupiers)

Stability for Most Buyers (for Now)

Because stamp duty and SDLT remain unchanged, homebuyers purchasing properties under £2 million won’t face new upfront tax burdens. For many in the mid-market including first-time buyers, growing families and those trading up. This is a relief and maintains a degree of certainty.

Caution for Buyers in the Upper Bracket

If you’re considering a property valued around or above £2 million, the looming “mansion tax” surcharge may factor into your decision. The added annual cost could influence long-term affordability especially for owner-occupiers planning to hold the property long-term.

Market Effects to Watch

With a new ongoing cost on high-value homes, there may be a dampening effect on demand at the top end of the market. Some potential buyers might look just below the threshold to avoid the surcharge creating increased competition in the sub-£2 million segment.

For Sellers

Short-Term Window Before Surcharge Takes Effect

Sellers of homes over £2 million have until April 2028 before the surcharge begins giving them a buffer period if they want to sell first rather than incur extra costs.

Opportunity for Sub-£2 Million Market Sellers

Properties just below the £2 million mark may become more attractive to buyers looking to avoid the surcharge. If you’re selling in that bracket, this could drive demand.

Potential Cooling at the Top End

Luxury sellers may face weaker demand and longer time on market as high-value buyers factor in the future surcharge costs. This may impact valuations and negotiation leverage for high-end property vendors.

For Renters and Tenants

Likely Fewer Rental Properties Over Time
Potential Rents Increase
Increased Pressure on Supply, Especially in High-Demand Areas

For Investors and Buy-to-Let Landlords

Reduced Net Returns — Especially for Small-Scale Landlords
Potential Shift to Limited Company Ownership or Larger Portfolios
Long-Term Yield vs Capital Growth Reconsidered
Planning Ahead: Evaluate Exits, Rent Strategy, and Portfolio Structure

 

 

Broader Market Impacts and Outlook

The introduction of the mansion tax may create a “price ceiling” effect around the £2 million threshold: demand could concentrate just below that threshold, while demand above might soften.

For the rental market, reduced attractiveness for landlords may lead to longer-term supply shortages, pushing rents up and making renting less affordable — especially if demand remains stable or increases.

For overall homeownership, the unchanged stamp duty provides stability, which may encourage first-time buyers or traditional homebuyers to proceed, but the broader tax pressures (income tax thresholds frozen, rising fiscal drag) could dampen overall demand or buyer power.

For the luxury and prime property segment, the surcharge combined with tax increases on rental income may reduce demand or shift investor focus — potentially leading to softer growth or even price adjustments in that sector.

Overall, the Budget appears designed to raise revenue from wealthier homeowners and landlords — but the knock-on effects could ripple through much of the property market, affecting pricing, demand, supply and rental affordability.

 

What Should You Do Right Now (Actionable Advice)

Buyers under £2 million: If you’re ready to move, proceed — stamp duty unchanged means no extra upfront cost.

Sellers of high-end homes (over £2 million): Consider whether selling before April 2028 might make sense to avoid future surcharge costs; or price realistically factoring in potential reduced demand.

Landlords / investors: Run updated cash-flow scenarios with the new tax rates; evaluate if holding under limited company or restructuring portfolios makes sense.

Renters: If you’re in the market for a long-term rental, start building a buffer — rental supply may tighten and rents could rise.

Everyone in the property market: Be aware of how “fiscal drag” and rising taxes on property income may influence future affordability and market sentiment.

 

 

Conclusion

The UK Autumn Budget 2025 delivers a mixed bag for the property market.

On one hand, stamp duty remains unchanged meaning a win for many buyers. On the other, the introduction of a “mansion tax” for high-value homes and increased tax on rental income signals a shift.

For landlords, investors and sellers of high-end properties, the new rules bring fresh challenges. Renters may feel the effects in the form of rising rents or reduced availability. Meanwhile, buyers under the £2 million threshold and mid-market sellers may enjoy a window of relative stability.

For those working in property; agents, investors, developers, adaptability will be key. The Budget doesn’t freeze market dynamics; it reshapes them. Understanding these changes, planning ahead, and acting smart will help navigate the evolving landscape.

For more information and helpful advice, give Arnold & Phillips a call or visit us in branch.

 

 

Simple Changes To Up Your House Value!

Simple Changes To Up Your House Value!

It’s a question we and other estate agents get asked a lot - “How can I increase the value of my home?” - well look no further we can help! Arnold & Phillips have been...

 

It’s a question we and other estate agents get asked a lot - “How can I increase the value of my home?” - well look no further we can help! Arnold & Phillips have been trading for over ten years and have a wealth of local market knowledge, here are some of our top tips to up your market value and achieve your asking price. 

 

Big Budget Home Improvements

Updating Your Kitchen

Kitchens can often be a big selling point - it is considered the heart of the home and it may be the first thing a buyer would look to replace or pay more for if a property has one they like. If you can update/ modernise a kitchen is can often vastly increase your selling price - desirable features we have seen - Integrated appliances, kitchen islands, bespoke storage solutions (fitted spice racks, pan holders - to decrease surface clutter), and breakfast bars.

  • Looking to change things on a budget? Updating your kitchen can also be done on a budget - painting units or replacing cupboard handles or doors are great alternatives. Good lighting and clutter-free, clean surfaces can also make a sizable difference! 

 

Updating Your Bathrooms

A new bathroom can often be a costly investment due to plumbing, it will be something you need to consider carefully. In 2019 it was predicted that modern styled bathrooms elevated the cost of a property by around 5% - so it may be worth the cost to get a new one fitted. 

  • Looking to change things on a budget? Update things such as paint, tiles, or grout to prevent any build-up of dirt. It can also help to update your shower enclosure or bath front. New taps or showerheads can also be fitted for a minimal price!

 

Install A New Heating System

Adding or updating the central heating system will always add more to the value of a property than it costs and should to be done in conjunction with improving the general energy efficiency of the building.

 

Extensions

Improvements that create a sense of space, such as extensions like - loft conversions, single-story, conservatories, or even garage conversions can be helpful as they add value through square footage. However, if you are considering this - you have to weigh up if an extension will take value off your home e.g. they eat into garden space or prevent off-road parking.

 

Are big-budget home improvements worth it?

Remember, there will always be a ceiling price for properties in your area or road. No matter how many jaw-dropping home improvements you invest in, your home will never exceed this - so consult an agent for advice. 

 

Smaller Budget Home Improvements

Tidy up the Exterior 

Never underestimate the first impressions of a home - a seller makes up their mind in the first few seconds of seeing your property, in Estate Agency often people do judge a book by its cover. So it is important to tidy up the exterior! Paint external walls or jet wash, get a new front door for safety or paint the existing one. It also helps to make sure the garden is well presented and manicured - we also find that a lot of buyers are now looking for outdoor seating - so consider space for patio or decking if possible, as well as additional storage facilities like a shed. 

 

Redecorate 

An overall redecoration of your home can make a world of difference, such as removing wallpaper, smoothing over walls, and adopting a neutral colour scheme. These simple and budget-friendly can often make the space brighter and neutral so prospective buyers can imagine themselves in the space.  

Adding some simple accessories can also make a world of difference!

Not sure how to accessories Home Stager/ Styler Molly Marshall can help with this - read more here

 

Create Space

It is very easy for someone living in the house to be used to a lot of accessories or clutter around the home but this can be off-putting to viewers. Yes, it can be tidied but the reality is, if you move it all out of sight, your home will look brighter and more welcoming. You should also consider the position of your furniture. A chair pushed back into the corner of a room might be too far to watch the TV from, but it will open up your floor space, showing the true size of the room – vital for possible new owners.

 

Add Special Features

For relatively low expenditure in the long-term, you can look at including certain items that will potentially add extra value to your home.

Examples might include:

  • Security systems to be included - Camera doorbell or entry system
  • Fitted blinds
  • New integrated appliances

Whatever you choose to do, it is a good idea to speak to one of our agents about the sort of features that make the most difference when selling in your area. If you would like a valuation to find out how much your home is worth now you can enquire here.

Our expert Valuers will be able to help give you a current market appraisal as well as local knowledge and advice to potentially up your value!

 
Arnold & Phillips Take Home 9 GetAgent Top Performer Awards!

Arnold & Phillips Take Home 9 GetAgent Top Performer Awards!

One of the most exciting parts of our job is hearing from offices that have continued to achieve success, especially when we know that they work incredibly hard.  We are very pleased to...

One of the most exciting parts of our job is hearing that our offices have continued to achieve success, especially when we know that they work incredibly hard. 

We are very pleased to announce today that Arnold & Phillips Estate Agents have won 9 GetAgent Top Performer Awards in Chorley (PR6, PR7, PR25, PR26), Ormskirk (L31, L39, L40), and Southport (PR8, PR9).

These awards would not be possible without the trust of our clients.

We strive for bespoke client service and these awards are confirmation that we’re on the right track!

About The GetAgents Top Performer Awards

These awards are based solely on our performance. Through the use of a proprietary algorithm, the GetAgent site collates property data directly from the Land Registry, Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket to compare the performance of different agents. This information is then shown to homeowners to help them find the very best  in their local area. 

Underpinning the Top performer awards are GetAgent’s 3 core performance metrics:

  • Percentage of the original asking price achieved
  • Average sale time
  • The number of properties listed in the past 6 months.

Based on a combination of these 3 metrics, If an agent falls within the top 20th percentile of agents in a given area, they are classified by GetAgent as being Top performers.

It is based on this that Arnold & Phillips are currently Top Performers in PR6, PR7, PR25, PR26, L31, L39, L40, PR8 and PR9 across our 3 branches! Based purely on performance, these awards demonstrate our commitment to provide our clients with top-of-the-line service. 

Client Testimonials for Arnold & Phillips Estate Agents

“I have had a fantastic experience with Arnold and Phillips. Each member of the team have been very friendly, responsive and helpful.”

“Changed my perception of Estate Agents! Every interaction has been professional, yet jovial. A contactable, dependable and efficient estate agent, awash with local people who know the area.”

“We could not be any happier with the service provided from all the team at Arnold and Phillips, very professional from start to finish. We have bought and sold with them and we would definitely use Arnold and Phillips again.”

About Arnold & Phillips - Award-Winning Estate Agents

Throughout Arnold & Phillip’s ten years we have become a recognised estate agent in the North West. 

Founded in the UK in 2010, by David and Emma Arnold, Arnold & Phillips has become one of the leading property agents in the North West. The business set out to be a different kind of Estate Agency committed to putting service first and creating a unique approach with every client and their property.

From the moment the doors opened the commitment to go that extra mile for all clients and customers has enabled us to maintain a strong presence in what is a highly competitive industry

The commitment to service, unique application of communications technology, and  individual style of marketing are why they have been awarded Top Performers in Chorley, Ormskirk, and Southport. Thank you for trusting and supporting our vision.

Our services:

  • Letting Management
  • Professional Photography
  • Aerial 4K Imagery
  • High Definition Videos
  • Home Staging
  • Professional and Personal Service
  • Assist our sellers to find their next home

Contact us today for a free property valuation, or try our instant online valuation. Get in touch with your local branch if you have any property questions, we’d love to be of assistance.

 
Ormskirk Water Tower - Historic Property Turned Modern Luxury

Ormskirk Water Tower - Historic Property Turned Modern Luxury

Old water towers are something of a familiar sight, effusing an air of mystery and a sense of curiosity. Dotting the skylines of towns and cities across the country, abandoned towers can become...

Your chance to own a local piece of history plus a unique, dream home.

Old water towers are something of a familiar sight, effusing an air of mystery and a sense of curiosity. Dotting the skylines of towns and cities across the country, abandoned towers can become derelict eyesores once they cease to be useful - their historic and cultural value often preventing them from being torn down. The creative owners of the old water tower that used to serve Ormskirk Hospital, however, have transformed the property into two stunning homes that you could own, allowing Ormskirk to retain its historic tower in an interesting, innovative, and productive way.

Learn more about the development of these two luxury properties below!

 

The water tower is a well-known landmark of Ormskirk and can be seen from miles away on a clear day. Designed by Liverpool architects Culshaw & Sumners in 1839 to provide water to the Poor Law Union workhouse which became Ormskirk Hospital in the 1950s, it was originally built in the 1850s by Wigan ironfounders Swift & House Ltd. Over the course of its 140-year working life, the tower was essential to the running and heating of the workhouse, and later hospital, as recently as the 1980s and 1990s.

 

 

Taller than most of the buildings around it, the tower provides stunning views as far as Blackpool and the Cumbrian Hills - captured perfectly by our drone operator and photographer.

 

Our client acquired the building in 2011 with the intention of breathing a new lease of life into this stunning structure. Repurposed as luxury apartments, topped by the original cast-iron water tank which forms the third level of the uppermost home, The Water Tower is of particular architectural interest due to its original features including, side projectile pipes, arched windows, and original iron beams. Complete with private parking, a serene fenced garden, an elevator serving the upper Apartment, and a spacious 1053 - 1144 square feet of living, these apartments offer a chance to inhabit your own personal slice of history while living in comfort and security.

 

 

These apartments have already gained a lot of buzz and it's easy to understand why. The Tower won the Conversion Category of the West Lancashire Design Awards in 2019 proving that it serves as a fantastic example of how innovative and inspired architecture can really re-vitalise and transform a period property.

 

We spoke to Mike and Nicky Jones of CJ Developments, who took on the mammoth task of transforming The Water Tower alongside their business partner John Crooks:

 

Q. What was it about The Water Tower that inspired you?

It was a real Grand Designs moment really… We went out one day to buy a sofa and came back with the idea to buy The Water Tower instead! We didn’t set out to take on a regeneration project but when we drove past The Water Tower we immediately saw its potential, and it stuck in our minds until we, along with our business partner John, decided to take the leap.

It was not all about financial gain with these homes - water towers around the UK so often become dilapidated and ignored, and we wanted to help breathe some life into this historic part of the town and enable the Tower to last for hundreds of years to come. We wanted to be able to create a property that would be restored sympathetically, and respectfully, something that would fit with and complement the skyline of Ormskirk.

 

 

Q. What did you retain? How sympathetic were you when designing?

When we started the project we invited some local Ormskirk Historians to the property to take a tour and discuss its prior use within the community. We wanted to learn as much as possible about the site so that we could be truly sympathetic to the structure and really encapsulate and retain the industrial feel of the building.

We could have done things a lot cheaper, but we thought that it was important to ensure the longevity of those stand-out features - for instance, the original arched windows were all made using hand cut bricks, and we chose to restore each unit using bespoke frames and glazing. This took longer to fit, but the windows are now some of our favourite parts of the Tower and helped to retain the Victorian grandeur of the property.

If you take a walk around the property you will notice that we have kept original features, such as the water valve outside of Apartment Two. We also found original sandstone masonry which we have repurposed to form part of the seating area in the garden - these may have even pre-dated the original construction of The Water Tower.

 

Q. What is your favourite feature of the property?

Well the cast iron tank itself of course stands out; you can see the base internally on the top floor of the uppermost apartment. The tank also stands out against the skyline of Ormskirk, as it has done for nearly 200 years.

That being said, we’re also incredibly proud of the bright living spaces. The majority of the rooms have windows from two aspects allowing beautiful natural light. The windows combined with the height of the property also mean that, on a sunny day, you can look out to Blackpool and see the Blackpool Tower. Even during the winter months you can enjoy the snowy vistas of the Cumbrian Hills, and Bonfire Night is truly a spectacle to behold!

 

Q. Did the people of Ormskirk support the project?

We had so much support on this project and we wanted to keep the local community as engaged as possible - The Water Tower is an important part of Ormskirk’s history and we wanted to honour that.

We worked with as many local businesses as possible, and they each brought enthusiasm and insight when transforming the space. Our team of people and businesses were all incredibly helpful as we had not taken on a task like this before. From architect Matt Wood, to the steel fabricators Touchline Fabrications Ltd, everybody seemed to love the character and the potential of the old building, and it quickly became a project of passion for everyone involved.

We have since invited neighbours to view the property so that they can appreciate the work and care that has gone into it, and we have even been recognised by the local council who awarded us with a West Lancashire Design Award in 2019.

 

Q. Mike, would you consider a similar project in the future?

I’m not sure about Nicky or John, but I think it could be on the horizon. This project was definitely a learning curve, and I’m not afraid to say that it took longer than I first expected! Even so, the Tower has been well worth the time devoted to it. Who else can say that they had the privilege to own and care for such a unique and historic build as this?

 

 

Why not take a 360° tour of these amazing flats!

360 Tour here

 

View apartment one           

View apartment two 

 

 

Room By Room Guide: Stage Your Home W/ Molly Marshall

Room By Room Guide: Stage Your Home W/ Molly Marshall

Looking to stage your home but don’t know where to start? Get more Molly Marshall tips & tricks that will make your home stand out on the market! 

Loved the first video in our home staging series? Get an in depth look at how to stage your home in this room by room guide. 

Get some amazing tips so your house will sparkle on the market! 

 

Staging Open Plan Living/ Kitchen Area

Open plan living can be confusing to style, but Molly shows us how to define your living areas and ways to avoid clutter and make the most of your home when staging. 

 

Molly tells us, it’s all about the accessories, using velvets and textures can make a home look luxurious, we especially love the tips on using feather pillows over polyester...

What tips will you use in your home?

 

How To Stage Your Bedrooms

A few simple adjustments to your bedroom can transform the area and create a luxurious setting that people will dream about living in! 

 

Molly shares that pops of colours are a great way to make a property stand out, especially using colours that tie in with surrounding nature. In this property she used greens and natural tones, what colours would you love to use?

 

Need More Tips - Get Molly’s Top Five! 

 

 

It’s amazing how well these tips and tricks can really transform your space. If you’re planning to sell your home and need help staging, don’t hesitate to call Molly! Find Her Here

Head over to our social media channels and let us know which tips you will be using, find us on Facebook and Instagram

 

Missed out on our first blog, read now! 
Home Staging & How to Sell Your House W/ Molly Marshall

Home Staging & How to Sell Your House W/ Molly Marshall

Getting your property ready to sell can be both exciting and stressful - with all the bustle of getting ready to move decorating and styling can often be the last thing on your mind… We...

We spoke to Molly Marshall who takes all the stress away with her expert Home Staging. We followed her at the beautiful Wybourne Gate, Southport in the first video in our Home Staging series.


Keep scrolling for the full blog.

 

 

Want to learn more about Molly’s process? Read the full interview below 

We sat down with Molly for a chat after she had staged Wybourne Gate to find out about what is the process of staging a home and what to consider when coming on the market.

 

Q. How did you get started in Home Staging Molly?

I got started in home staging when I was approaching 50. I had worked in radio all my life, and I decided I want to do something completely different. 



Q. Many get confused between Home Staging and Interior Design, tell us what is the difference?

There absolutely is a big difference in home staging and interior design. They are actually at opposite ends of the spectrum. An interior designer will spend a lot of time with you talking about the way you live the way you spend time in a property, they might do mood boards for you and their aim will be to make an aesthetically pleasing property for you to live in. 

Staging is all about preparing a property to sell. It is a marketing tool, nothing else. The aim of staging is to get your property sold quickly for the best price possible.

 

Q. You have worked with us on many projects, how do you find working with A&P?

Arnold & Phillips employ professional photographers and videographers, which is really important, plus, great for me as it allows you to capture the detail I have put in when staging. 

I reached out to A&P when David Arnold came to value my property, I took the opportunity to pitch my business to him over the kitchen table and he was great. He said that he understood and that presentation was really important and so we decided to work alongside each other. 

 

Q. What is your favourite style of property to work on?

I love working on any property!  I can see huge positives in any home I walk into, whether it be £50,000, or 5 million, I can always see the positives. I get a buzz from making homes look lovely.

 

Q. What is your process when staging a home? 

There are different types of staging, it can either be a property that's completely empty, which is a blank canvas, which is really easy for me to do. 

Or, the more difficult stages are when people actually live in the property and then it's a case of walking around every room and advising on how best to present that room. The biggest hurdle to overcome is clutter. We all have too much stuff and clutter is not good. 

I always say to people, this is the first stage now, start packing up, take your photographs down and things that aren't essential. It's the first stage of moving on, which will make your property look clear and tidy.

 

Q. How many rooms would you typically stage?

If it's an empty property, I will say that you need to stage a minimum of one bedroom and living area.

If people are working to a tight budget, we try to work with what they have with added touches. I always over deliver because I want the property to look nice. It might be the case that I say to people, I will put some fabulous mirrors, some lamps, and some nice new cushions and throws. So, replace what they've got with my items that will make a difference.

 

Q. Is it all about the furniture or do you incorporate smells? They say baking bread sells a home…

One of the biggest turn offs for people when they come into a house is smells. So I always say put nice diffusers around, it doesn't have to be freshly baked bread or brewed coffee.

 

Q. How have you seen the property market change over the years?

Since the birth of the internet, what you have to remember is that marketing and your photographs is your shop window. They have to look as good as they possibly can, you only get one chance to make a first impression. 

They say that people decide if they like your home or they don't, within the first minute of walking through the front door. So get it ready and go in with a bang, not with a whimper - make it look as good as you possibly can and if you need help give me a call!  

 

Find out more about Molly here

 

Molly’s Top Tips

 

Looking to get on the market? 

Get in touch with your local branch and enquire about a no fee valuation or send us an enquiry here
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
First Time Buyers, How A 95% Mortgage Could Help You

First Time Buyers, How A 95% Mortgage Could Help You

First-time buyers with small deposits may now find it easier to get a mortgage, with 90% and 95% deals becoming easier to access. But how will this help you?...

First-time buyers with small deposits may now find it easier to get a mortgage, with 90% and 95% deals becoming easier to access. The government recently announced a return of the 95% mortgage in order to help turn ‘generation rent’ into ‘generation buy’. But how will this help you?...

Nine in ten 90% and 95% mortgages were withdrawn from the market in the wake of the Covid-19 outbreak last spring, says Which.  

A year later, things are starting to look better for first time buyers, with mortgage lenders bringing back 90%, and a selection re-introducing the 95% mortgage guarantee scheme.

 

What is the 95% mortgage guarantee scheme, and how can it help?

95% mortgages, allow you to enter the market with only a 5% mortgage, making it easier for first time buyers with small deposits. 

The scheme has been encouraged by governments to turn “generation rent, into generation buy”, and as a result the scheme involves the government taking on some of the financial risk e.g. If a buyer was to default on repayments. 

The guarantee has so far been successful, with 78 fixed rate 95%* deals now available to the market, at the start of March there were only five. 

 

How much can I borrow with a low-deposit mortgage? 

It is important to look at how much you can borrow, not only so you can enter the market with a price point in mind, but so you don’t look at properties and fall in love with those beyond your means. 

When taking a 90 or 95% mortgage you can usually* borrow up to four and a half time your income (or joint income). Although, there are exceptions with some lenders. 

 

All in all, we can see that the market is getting better for first time buyers and this is an exciting time to start getting your foot on the ladder. If you want to take advantage of the schemes pop us a call today! 

Still a little confused?  Call your local branch and we can help you find a mortgage advisor!

Helpful Information For First Time Buyers

 
Why We Love Southport - Take A Tour Today

Why We Love Southport - Take A Tour Today

Discover what makes Southport an idyllic place to live with Heather… From award winning golf courses to golden coasts we want to show you our Southport highlights.

With award-winning beaches, peaceful woodland and views out to the serene Irish Sea, Southport is truly the picture-perfect place to live, if you want to learn more about Southport why not take a tour with Heather and discover what Southport has to offer.

 

 If you think Southport could be for you, why not take a look at some of our amazing properties in the area - here are just a few of our favourites! 

Our Southport Branch’s Top Picks

 Lulworth Road, Birkdale

 

This well-presented two-bedroom duplex apartment is sure to be popular, it is located attractively within this gorgeous Victorian apartment complex along Lulworth Road in Birkdale, Southport. 

Here

If you like this we also have another apartment in the building here

 

Ash Street, Southport

Extending to a generous 2,278 square foot off modern yet traditional living accommodation residing within a good sized plot with four bedrooms along the popular and well-situated Ash street, internal inspection is highly advised to fully appreciate all this vibrant property has to offer.

Here

 

Guinea Hall Close, Banks

 

Located on an attractive corner plot in this pleasant 20-year-old Redrow development in Banks, West Lancs. With off-road parking for two vehicles and a well-manicured front garden, this modern property is ideally situated within the attractive village of banks and is within close proximity to highly regarded local schools, with the property also benefiting from particularly good transport and commuter links into Southport, Preston and beyond. 

Here

 

Preston New Road, Churchtown

 

‘The Sycamores’ - a substantial detached residence located within Churchtown, Southport. This versatile property is the epitome of modern grandeur, from the beautiful entrance hallway with its magnificent oak and glass staircase. This home has so much to love, like, breathtaking open plan family room, stunning feature log burner and exquisite bar area, featuring a stunning state of the art designer kitchen, this property exudes contemporary elegance

Here

 

Coming soon… Keep an eye out for

Guinea Hall Mews - Banks 

 Keep an eye out for a new property coming on Guinea Hall Mews, Banks, this one is sure to be popular! This Four bedroom townhouse has ample space and so much potential for growing families. 

Why not register with us for new property listings here 

or call us for more information on 01704 778 668 

 

Why choose Southport?

Our Regional Manager David Moorcroft tells us why...

 

 

I have lived in the Southport area for many years and enjoy the beautiful variety of parks and family friendly restaurants. Me and my family love nothing better than having a weekend stroll with the dogs in the parks or beach - It truly is an idyllic place.

Having lived in the town for many years, I am proud to sell in the area and know it well, which helps me find the perfect home for you! 

There is a home for all in Southport, so if you are looking for a coastal cottage, historic build or modern apartment our Southport Branch would be happy to help whether buying or selling…

Get in touch on 01704 778 668.”

 
Video Tour: Why We Love West Lancashire

Video Tour: Why We Love West Lancashire

We are passionate about the areas we cover and we want you to see what makes West Lancashire a place you can call home. We chose a couple of stand out areas. West Lancashire is a nature lover's...

West Lancashire is a nature lover's dream, with green belt land, homes off the beaten track as well as beautiful properties embedded in busy market towns that are full of history. 

Take a tour with Heather and discover all West Lancs has to offer

 

From Ormskirk to Aughton, West Lancashire has so much to offer. 

 

Our Ormskirk Branch’s Top Picks

92 New Street, Halsall

Set on a large plot in highly desirable Halsall village is this fabulous, six bedroom, detached former farmhouse. The property affords 3265 square feet of sublime family living space to include a detached outbuilding which would be perfect for conversion to a home office. 

More here

4 Moss Delph, Ormskirk 

Located along the much sought after Moss Delph Lane in Aughton, this detached home is pleasantly positioned comfortably back from the road and residing within a generous plot. This one is perfect for growing families with four bedrooms with a well flowing floorplan.

More here

Oak Cottage on Dark Lane, Aughton

The home's elegant grandeur marries perfectly with its fine surroundings, and displays a wealth of period features and a finish of the highest standard... This home offers far more than the just the curb appeal afforded by its handsome facade, with a vast 3642 square feet of living accommodation and a truly impressive floor plan

More here

 

Keep an eye out for: The Water Tower

 

**360 virtual tour now available!** This gorgeous three bedroom top floor triplex apartment exudes character and style in equal measure, and simply must be viewed to appreciate not only the generous levels of space and magnificent views towards Blackpool and the Cumbrian hills, but also the thoughtful design, both of the interior of the property, but more generally, the development itself which has seen the renovation and restoration of one of Ormskirk’s landmark buildings ‘The Water Tower’ which was originally built around 1850 and boasts six storeys topped by the large metal water tank which forms the third level of this stunning home.

Apartment 1

Apartment 2

 

Coming soon

Keep an eye out for a new property coming on Altys Lane, Ormskirk, this one is sure to be popular! With three bedrooms and a potential loft room this family home has ample space and so much potential..



Why choose Chorley? Discover from our Property Consultant Lisa!

 

 

“From day one, working in our Ormskirk branch was always about delivering something really special and knowing our area inside and out. 

 

My favourite area in particular is Burscough, particularly the amazing pubs by the side of the canal. On a sunny day it is a beautiful place to sit outside and look out over the beautiful surroundings with a glass of fizz in hand. There is a great atmosphere and it feels like home to me. 

 

If you would like to learn more about the area, give me a call! I have lived and worked in the area for many years and can help find the ideal place for you. 

Get in touch on 01695 570102.”

 

 

 

Why not register with us for new property listings here 

or call us for more information on 01695 570102

 







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THREE
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