December 2025: after the Budget, and getting ready for January

December is a natural pause point for many buyers and homeowners, but it's also the perfect time to prepare for the year ahead.

Now the dust has settled on the Budget

The Autumn Budget didn't bring major immediate changes for most buyers, but it has shaped the outlook for early 2026. A few weeks on, here's what we can confidently say:

• Stamp duty remains unchanged, which means no surprises for buyers planning a move.
• Landlord tax changes from 2027 could gradually increase rental prices and may encourage some landlords to sell, creating more opportunities for first time buyers.
• High value homes face a new annual charge from 2028, which may cool activity at the top end of the market.
• Crucially, the broader economic backdrop is improving, with lenders continuing to make quiet reductions to fixed rate pricing as inflation eases.

All signs point to a calmer, more confident mortgage market heading into 2026.

Planning to buy in the new year? Start now

January is traditionally a busy month for the property market. Buyers return, enquiries spike and competition increases. If you want to be in the strongest position this January, here's what to do.

1. Speak to a mortgage adviser before the rush. A quick conversation now helps you:

• Understand what you can borrow
• Get a head start on other buyers
• Spot any issues that could delay things in January

2. Get a Mortgage in Principle. A MIP shows estate agents and sellers that you're proceedable. It can be the difference between securing an offer and missing out.

3. Get your documents ready early. When the market picks up in January, the buyers who move fastest are the ones who already have their documents prepared. This is especially important if you're self employed, as lenders look for more detailed income evidence. Here's what to get ready now:

• P60 (if employed): lenders often request this alongside payslips
• SA302 and Tax Year Overview: essential for self employed applicants; these must match and show your most recent declared income
• Latest accounts: if you run a limited company, have your most recent full accounts to hand (some lenders can use net profits as income for affordability)
• Evidence of deposit funds: whether savings, a gifted deposit or funds held in another account, lenders will want clear proof of where the money has come from

Getting these sorted before January avoids last minute delays and puts you in a far stronger position when you find the right property.