Following the 2008 recession, a great deal of attention has been paid by commentators to the monthly performance of the UK property market, with the overall medium-term trajectory demonstrating marked nationwide growth. According to industry data, the average British home has risen by 18% in value over the past decade, with London continuing to lead market growth – averaging 80% over the past ten years.
Despite a number of notable political and economic headwinds over the period, the property market has proven to be a vibrant hub for both domestic and international investment. Critical to this has been the role of the bridging sector in providing investors with access to the swift and efficient finance essential to capitalising on short-term investment opportunities. For investors seeking to refurbish and restore residential real-estate and bring new properties onto the market, bridging has proven to be an increasingly popular option – the latest Bridging Trends figures suggest that such projects now comprise the largest segment of UK bridging loans, representing 27% of all lending.
The historic performance of the sector in supporting nationwide economic growth in times of political uncertainty should provide cause for optimism in the years ahead. Since the UK’s Brexit vote, new vibrancy has been highlighted in regional markets across the UK such as Birmingham and Manchester with 8% and 7% respective annual growth rates. This regional growth thereby presents significant opportunities for the nation’s real-estate investors.
To this end, MFS’ Property Heatmap is an effective tool for buy-to-let investors seeking to understand the latest socio-economic and market trends defining real estate prices in UK’s regions and cities. Regularly updated with the latest industry statistics, the MFS Property Heatmap offers the insight and guidance for investors seeking to consolidate and expand their real estate portfolio. To find out more, click here to access MFS’ Property Heatmap.