There are wide regional variations in both house prices and rents, which tend to be higher in London and the South East than the rest of the UK. Housing is often, though not always, cheaper in rural than urban areas. As there are very few Council houses and demand is high, there tend to be long waiting lists for this kind of accommodation. For a comparison of house prices by region you could visit Up My Street.

Buying Property

Information about properties for sale in the UK can be obtained from estate agents, the internet and newspapers, particularly in local papers. The majority of buyers enlist the services of a solicitor to assist in the legal aspects of purchasing property. A list of estate agents in the area of a prospective buyer's interest may be obtained from the National Association of Estate Agents

You can find details of property for sale throughout the UK at www.rightmove.co.uk and www.accomodation.com

To help buy a house or flat, most people take out a mortgage loan, which normally covers up to 95% of the property price. In some cases, 100% loans are available. Mortgages can be obtained at various rates of interest from building societies, banks and specialist finance houses as well as from some insurance companies and local authorities.

It is important to bear in mind other costs, such as legal fees, stamp duty and solicitor's charges when budgeting for a house purchase. Advice on the purchase of houses through building societies may be obtained, free of charge, from the Building Societies Association

Renting Property

Rented housing and apartments, both furnished and unfurnished, may be found in the classified sections of local British newspapers, the London Evening Standard, accommodation agencies and estate agents. Rent varies considerably, being generally higher in London than the rest of the country. There are different types of lease which give tenants different degrees of security of tenure, but new lettings are generally of two kinds: assured tenancies with long term security of tenure; and assured short hold tenancies, for a fixed period of at least six months. It is important to read the lease carefully before signing it, so that you understand to which type of tenancy you are agreeing.

Details of the different UK tenancy agreements are available on the website of the Deputy Prime Minister’s Office at www.housing.odpm.gov.uk

Should you require further help or advice, please contact your local council, Citizen’s Advice Bureaux or housing advice centres.

Council Tax

The Homeowners or tenants are responsible for paying the Council Tax on their property. The tax is based on the value of the property, which will fall into one of eight tax bands. The Council Tax is paid directly to the local council. There are concessionaire rates, e.g. for people living alone. Contact your local council for further details.