At this time of year, homes feel a little more special. They hold the quiet mornings, the busy kitchens, the familiar corners where memories are made — and at Christmas, they become the backdrop for moments that truly matter.

Most landlords don’t review their property until something goes wrong. But the strongest portfolios are built through regular check-ins, not reactive fixes. December is the perfect time to step back, assess performance and make small changes now that protect returns, reduce stress and set the year ahead up properly.

ightmove’s latest House Price Index shows a remarkable start to 2026 with asking prices rising faster than they have for years. In this article we break down what the data means for buyers and sellers right now — and what you need to know before making your move.

Buyer demand does not suddenly appear in spring. It starts right now. In this article we break down where serious buyers are in January 2026, why early demand creates stronger pricing and how sellers who move first gain a real negotiation edge before the market becomes crowded.