May 2025 Real Estate Round‑Up: Practical Guides for Buyers, Renters & Investors
May was a busy month at Loncor Property Solutions. We covered everything from quick rental‑yield shortcuts to the nitty‑gritty of shared‑ownership deals. Whether you’re hunting your first home, juggling a student lease, or figuring out how much an agent should cost, you’ll find straight‑to‑the‑point advice here.
Investing, Renting & Student Living
We kicked off the month with the classic 2% rule. The rule still helps newbies gauge a rental’s cash flow, but we warned about its blind spots – like ignoring mortgage rates and local market quirks. Our quick calculator tip lets you test the rule in seconds, then decide if you need a deeper dive.
Student housing got its own spotlight thanks to iQ accommodation. We broke down what you actually pay for – security, utilities, social events – and listed hidden costs most students miss. If you’re about to sign a lease, our checklist saves you from surprise fees.
Agents, Fees & Shared‑Ownership Made Simple
Contacting a real‑estate agent can feel awkward. We gave you a ready‑made script: mention your budget, timeline, and ask three key questions. Being clear from the start speeds up replies and builds trust.
Speaking of agents, many wonder how much they charge. We demystified the typical commission structure, highlighted why fees vary by region, and shared tactics to negotiate a lower rate or get extra services bundled in.
Shared ownership dominated the conversation. We explained the share‑ownership structure, how percentages affect monthly payments, and what happens when you buy more shares later. Our guide on pricing shared‑ownership homes shows you which factors drive valuation – from market trends to property condition – so you can spot a fair deal.
For those considering co‑ownership with a friend, we outlined joint mortgage requirements, legal safeguards, and the pros and cons of splitting ownership. The same applies to understanding how much co‑owners actually earn from shared‑ownership properties – we covered profit splits, tax implications, and common pitfalls.
We also tackled the buzz around shared‑equity agreements and ESOP schemes. While they sound like shortcuts to homeownership, we highlighted hidden risks, long‑term costs, and red flags to watch for before signing.
On the budget side, we listed real locations where you can still find houses under £50,000. From the north of England to overseas markets, we gave a realistic look at what those properties offer and what due‑diligence steps you need.
Lastly, credit scores made the cut. An 800 score is rarer than most think, and we broke down why lenders love it, how it can lower your mortgage rate, and practical steps to improve your score without stressing yourself out.
All these pieces together give you a solid toolbox for navigating today’s property market. Bookmark this page, refer back when you need a quick answer, and remember that Loncor Property Solutions is here to help you turn property questions into confident decisions.
