An independent committee has called for the OBR to assess the housing-market impact of every Budget measure, underlining how fiscal policy can affect confidence, affordability, supply and mortgage demand. At the same time, uncertainty remains around the Future Homes Standard, including its effect on development costs and lender valuations.
New-build interest from second- and third-steppers has reportedly risen by 23%, yet higher build costs, moving expenses and ongoing ownership costs continue to constrain affordability. Advisers should look beyond the mortgage payment when discussing a move, including service charges, energy performance, incentives, deposit source and the resilience of household budgets.
Data-led tools can help compare total ownership costs and flag affordability pressures, but advice must remain personalised. Market forecasts and policy announcements are not a substitute for a robust affordability assessment.