What Andy Burnham’s Housing Announcements Could Mean for Property Investors
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Some of the Key Updates Announced for the UK Property Market
For many aspiring homeowners, getting onto the property ladder has become increasingly difficult. First-time buyer activity has been hit by growing house prices, mortgage affordability pressures, and the need for a substantial upfront deposit.
However, some of those pressures could soon ease under Prime Minister Andy Burnham’s proposed housing plans.
While key details are still to be confirmed, recent announcements could have meaningful implications for buyers, developers, and property investors. Read our latest property news blog for insights on what was proposed, and what this could mean for investors in the UK market.
A Lower Deposit Route for First-Time Buyers?
Among the PM’s proposals is the Your First Home scheme, designed to help eligible first-time buyers in England purchase new-build properties with a deposit of just 2.5%.
Buyers could also access a government-backed equity loan worth up to 20% of the home’s value. In theory, this could reduce the size of the mortgage needed and also help bridge the gap for buyers who can afford monthly repayments but have struggled to save a lump-sum deposit.
However, investors should note that the final scheme design has not yet been confirmed. Eligibility rules, household income thresholds, and property price caps are still to be announced, so it’s too early to judge who the scheme could benefit most.
That said, a lower-deposit route could bring more first-time buyers into the market, potentially supporting demand for new-build homes and encouraging development.
More entry-level activity may also strengthen the wider property market, helping drive the number of property sales and create a more active environment for buyers, sellers, and developers.
Regional cities with growing populations, regeneration, and strong employment prospects, such as Liverpool, Leeds, and Manchester, could be particularly well placed to benefit from this increased buyer activity.
For investors, all of this reinforces the importance of choosing properties with a broad appeal. Well-located apartments and houses that suit a mix of both renters and future owner-occupiers can offer more flexibility.
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Higher Expectations for Rental Homes
At the same time, property condition, maintenance, and tenant safety are becoming even more important to long-term investment planning.
The PM has also proposed tougher action against ‘rogue landlords’ and poorly maintained rental homes. Landlords who fail to improve unsafe or substandard properties after being warned could face stronger local authority intervention. In the most serious cases, councils could even take control of the homes concerned.
This follows the planned New Decent Homes Standard, which will apply to the private rented sector from 2035.
Why New-Builds Could Stand Out
For many investors, buying a modern, high-spec, new-build property can help reduce some of the risks commonly associated with older homes.
Efficient heating and insulation along with fewer immediate maintenance requirements may appeal to tenants while helping landlords prepare for tightening standards.
But investors should still, of course, carry out due diligence. No housing policy guarantees capital growth, rental demand, or returns. However, selecting the right property in a location with tenant appeal, connectivity, and ongoing investment can help create a more resilient strategy.
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The Investor Takeaway
The PM’s recent announcements point towards two broad changes:
- Greater support for prospective first-time buyers
- Greater accountability for landlords
For investors, that could mean stronger demand for new-build properties in certain locations, but also a greater need to prioritise quality and compliance.
Choosing a property that is modern, energy-efficient, and professionally maintained may help landlords appeal to today’s tenants while preparing for tomorrow’s regulations.
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