After a subdued end to 2025, the first quarter of 2026 has quietly rebuilt confidence in the housing market. March may be the strategic launch point sellers have been waiting for.

Searching for the right home can be overwhelming. Use this practical checklist to stay organised, confident and ready to act when the right property appears.

If you read our recent guide on the upcoming rental reforms, you will know that the biggest changes to the private rented sector in a generation are just around the corner. Phase 1 of the Renters' Rights Act comes into effect on 1 May 2026, and for landlords, the time to prepare is now, not next month.

The UK rental market is on the cusp of significant change. Our comprehensive guide breaks down the upcoming rental reform into clear, manageable phases, helping both landlords and tenants understand what to expect and how to prepare for these pivotal updates.