Ross & Sons Estate Agents

Ross & Sons Estate Agents Ross & Sons Estate Agents, your local estate agency.

ROSS & SONS ESTATE AGENTS – MARKET UPDATEA major shift is underway across the UK rental market, with more landlords turn...
15/04/2026

ROSS & SONS ESTATE AGENTS – MARKET UPDATE

A major shift is underway across the UK rental market, with more landlords turning to Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) to maximise returns and meet rising tenant demand.

Ross & Sons Estate Agents – Breaking News UpdateSix Agency Brands Expelled from Redress SchemeSix estate agency business...
14/04/2026

Ross & Sons Estate Agents – Breaking News Update

Six Agency Brands Expelled from Redress Scheme

Six estate agency businesses have been expelled from The Property Ombudsman after failing to pay compensation awards to consumers, highlighting serious breaches of professional standards within the industry.

The decision followed a review by the Ombudsman’s independent compliance committee, which found that each firm had failed to meet its obligations by not complying with legally binding rulings.

The cases involved a range of serious issues, including:

Failure to pass on rental income to landlords

Lack of response to formal complaints

Poor communication and mismanagement of funds

Unauthorised tenancy arrangements and incorrect fee charges

In some instances, landlords were left thousands of pounds out of pocket, with one case involving over £12,000 in unpaid rent.

The The Property Ombudsman provides an independent service to resolve disputes between agents and consumers, and membership is a key requirement for operating legally and ethically within the sector.

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Our View – Ross & Sons Estate Agents

This news serves as a strong reminder of the importance of due diligence when choosing an estate or letting agent.

At Ross & Sons Estate Agents, we strongly advise landlords and tenants to:

Ensure the agent is registered with a redress scheme such as The Property Ombudsman

Check for professional accreditations and compliance

Review client feedback and track record

Confirm there are clear processes for handling complaints and safeguarding funds

Choosing a regulated and compliant agent ensures that, should any issues arise, there is accountability, protection, and a clear route to resolution.

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Key Takeaway
Working with a professional, regulated estate agent is not just best practice — it’s essential for protecting your property, your finances, and your peace of mind.

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Ross & Sons Estate Agents – Breaking News UpdateTenants across England have been issued new guidance as part of the gove...
10/04/2026

Ross & Sons Estate Agents – Breaking News Update

Tenants across England have been issued new guidance as part of the government’s rollout of the Renters’ Rights Act, with a strong focus on improving transparency, fairness, and accountability within the private rental sector.

A series of official guides have now been released, primarily aimed at private tenants, covering key areas of the lettings process both before and after the legislation comes into effect on 1 May 2026.

Key updates include:

• Notices of Possession (Before 1 May 2026)
Guidance has been issued explaining what happens when a landlord serves notice before the new legislation takes effect. This includes the legal process, court proceedings, and eviction timelines if tenants remain in the property.

• Notices of Possession (After 1 May 2026)
A separate guide outlines the updated procedures under the new rules, providing tenants with clarity on their rights once the Renters’ Rights Act is fully implemented.

• Tenant Fees Explained
Updated guidance relating to the Tenant Fees Act 2019 details what landlords and agents can legally charge, reinforcing protections against unfair or hidden costs.

• Rent Repayment Orders (RROs)
Tenants are being informed about offences that could lead to a Rent Repayment Order, including how to identify breaches and the evidence required when making a claim.

• Rental Discrimination Guidance
A new guide highlights responsibilities for landlords, agents, and even third parties such as referencing providers, ensuring all applicants are treated fairly and without discrimination.

Our View
At Ross & Sons Estate Agents, we welcome greater clarity for tenants and landlords alike. While these changes raise standards across the sector, they also reinforce the importance of compliance and professional management for landlords moving forward.

As the rental market continues to evolve, staying informed and prepared will be key for both tenants and property investors.

Company Director Warns of Landlord ExodusRising pressures within the rental sector are prompting concerns that more land...
08/04/2026

Company Director Warns of Landlord Exodus

Rising pressures within the rental sector are prompting concerns that more landlords may exit the market in the coming months.

With higher mortgage costs now adding to the impact of the Renters’ Rights Act, many landlords are reassessing the viability of their portfolios. Increased regulation, stricter compliance requirements, and ongoing financial pressures are contributing to reduced confidence across the sector.

Key concerns include:

Sustained increases in mortgage repayments

Reduced flexibility following legislative changes

Growing operational and compliance costs

Our View:
A contraction in landlord supply could place further upward pressure on rents and reduce tenant choice, particularly in already competitive areas.

At Ross & Sons Estate Agents, we continue to support landlords in navigating these changes—helping protect long-term investments while maintaining strong, compliant tenancies.

Ross & Sons Estate Agents – Market UpdateStricter Tenant Vetting Expected Under Renters’ Rights ActWith the upcoming imp...
07/04/2026

Ross & Sons Estate Agents – Market Update

Stricter Tenant Vetting Expected Under Renters’ Rights Act

With the upcoming implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act on 1st May, landlords across the UK are preparing for a significant shift in how they manage tenancies.

Recent industry data indicates that nearly 70% of landlords plan to introduce more rigorous tenant referencing processes. This is largely in response to the removal of Section 21 evictions and the anticipated delays within the court system under the revised Section 8 framework.

Landlords are becoming increasingly cautious, with many:

Enhancing affordability and background checks

Being more selective in tenant sourcing and advertising channels

Reviewing risk exposure linked to rent arrears and anti-social behaviour

Financial planning is also a key focus. Over half of landlords are considering rent increases, while others are reviewing cost efficiencies across their portfolios to maintain profitability.

Our View:
While the Renters’ Rights Act aims to improve tenant security, it is also likely to reshape the rental landscape. Stronger vetting processes may create barriers for some tenants, particularly those without established rental histories or consistent income streams.

At Ross & Sons Estate Agents, we are proactively supporting landlords through these changes—ensuring compliance while maintaining a balanced, fair, and sustainable approach to tenant selection.

Ross & Sons Estate Agents – Market Update
02/04/2026

Ross & Sons Estate Agents – Market Update

Ross & Sons Estate Agents – Market UpdateStarter Deposit Scheme Proposed as Industry Sees Continued ExpansionRecent deve...
01/04/2026

Ross & Sons Estate Agents – Market Update
Starter Deposit Scheme Proposed as Industry Sees Continued Expansion

Recent developments within the property sector highlight both policy innovation and ongoing industry growth.

A leading thinktank has proposed a new “Starter Deposit” scheme aimed at supporting first-time buyers struggling to save for deposits. The initiative is designed to improve accessibility to homeownership by reducing one of the most significant barriers to entry, particularly for younger buyers facing affordability challenges.

If introduced, the scheme could help stimulate demand at the lower end of the market, providing renewed opportunities for buyers currently priced out due to high deposit requirements. However, as with any government-backed initiative, the long-term structure and eligibility criteria will be key to its effectiveness.

Alongside this, LRG (Leaders Romans Group) has announced its latest acquisition, signalling continued consolidation within the estate agency sector. This reflects a broader trend of larger firms strengthening their market position through strategic expansion, despite wider economic uncertainty.

Our View:
The proposed deposit support scheme is a positive step toward improving market accessibility, but buyers should remain mindful of overall affordability, mortgage conditions, and long-term financial commitments. Meanwhile, ongoing acquisitions underline the importance of adaptability and strong service standards within an evolving industry landscape.

For tailored advice on buying, selling, or investing in property, visit Ross & Sons Estate Agents or explore our latest insights here:
👉 https://www.rossandsonsestateagents.co.uk

Ross & Sons Estate Agents will continue to monitor these developments and provide clear, practical guidance to clients navigating the market.

Ross & Sons Estate Agents – Market UpdateShared Ownership Under Scrutiny Amid Calls for Mortgage ReformRecent findings f...
31/03/2026

Ross & Sons Estate Agents – Market Update
Shared Ownership Under Scrutiny Amid Calls for Mortgage Reform

Recent findings from the National Audit Office have raised concerns over the effectiveness of the UK’s Shared Ownership scheme, highlighting growing complexity and potential risks for buyers.

The report indicates that many purchasers do not fully understand the long-term financial commitments involved—particularly in relation to service charges and the “staircasing” process, where additional shares of a property are purchased over time. These factors can lead to increased costs and financial pressure beyond initial expectations.

With the closure of Help to Buy and tighter restrictions on Right to Buy, Shared Ownership has become a more prominent route onto the property ladder. However, the NAO notes that it remains difficult to measure whether the scheme is delivering value for money or meeting its intended objectives.

In response, there have been renewed calls for structural reform, including proposals directed at the Labour Party to consider introducing life-long fixed-rate mortgage products. Such measures aim to provide greater stability and transparency for buyers navigating an increasingly complex housing landscape.

Our View

At Ross & Sons Estate Agents, we recognise that Shared Ownership can offer an accessible entry point into homeownership. However, it is essential that buyers receive clear, professional guidance and fully understand both the short- and long-term implications before proceeding.

We strongly advise:

Full financial assessment prior to commitment

Clear understanding of lease terms and service charges

Independent mortgage and legal advice

As the market continues to evolve, transparency and informed decision-making remain critical for both buyers and investors.

For further updates and professional insights, continue to follow Ross & Sons Estate Agents.

Market Update: Global Uncertainty Impacts UK Housing MarketAt Ross & Sons Estate Agents, we are closely monitoring how o...
28/03/2026

Market Update: Global Uncertainty Impacts UK Housing Market

At Ross & Sons Estate Agents, we are closely monitoring how ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are influencing the UK property market.

Current conditions show that while buyer demand remains present, it has become increasingly price-sensitive and cautious. The most immediate impact is being felt within the mortgage sector. In recent weeks, there has been a noticeable reduction in available mortgage products, alongside upward pressure on interest rates as lenders respond to rising funding costs.

This shift is creating greater hesitation among buyers and, in some cases, slowing decision-making. As a result, transactions are becoming more complex, with increased emphasis on financial readiness and timing.

However, despite these challenges, market activity has not stalled. Viewing levels remain steady, and motivated buyers are still actively submitting offers. The key difference is that buyers are now more focused on value and certainty.

Key observations:

Demand remains, but buyers are more selective

Mortgage availability has tightened, impacting affordability

Pricing strategy is now critical to securing serious interest

Delays in decision-making increase the risk of deals falling through

Our professional view: In the current climate, realism and decisiveness are essential. Sellers who price competitively and engage with committed buyers early are more likely to achieve successful outcomes. Likewise, buyers who secure mortgage approval promptly are better positioned to proceed with confidence.

While global uncertainty continues to influence sentiment, the UK housing market is still moving—just with greater sensitivity to pricing, affordability, and timing.

Ross & Sons Estate Agents will continue to provide clear, informed guidance to help clients navigate these changing conditions.

Market Update: Tax Pressures and Economic Headwinds Impacting the 2026 Housing MarketAt Ross & Sons Estate Agents, we ar...
27/03/2026

Market Update: Tax Pressures and Economic Headwinds Impacting the 2026 Housing Market

At Ross & Sons Estate Agents, we are continuing to monitor key developments shaping the UK property market to ensure our clients remain informed and prepared.

Recent commentary from Stacy Eden of RSM UK highlights growing concern around the resilience of the 2026 housing market. While annual figures from the HM Land Registry show modest price growth of 1.3%, this masks a more concerning short-term trend, with monthly prices declining and transaction levels falling significantly.

Data from HM Revenue and Customs indicates that property transactions dropped by approximately 20% in early 2026, reflecting reduced buyer activity amid rising mortgage costs, inflationary pressures, and broader economic uncertainty.

From a market perspective, several key issues are now converging:

Affordability Constraints: Higher borrowing costs and weak real wage growth are limiting buyer confidence and purchasing power.

Taxation Pressure: Ongoing concerns around Stamp Duty and landlord taxation continue to suppress both residential and investment demand.

Supply Challenges: Increased development costs, planning delays, and regulatory burdens are impacting the viability of new housing projects.

Landlord Exit Trends: Continued legislative changes, including rental reform measures, are contributing to a gradual reduction in rental stock.

Looking ahead, there is a growing expectation that house prices may soften further in the first half of 2026, particularly if inflation rises and economic growth remains subdued. This could create a more price-sensitive market, with longer selling times and increased negotiation on agreed sales.

Industry experts are now calling for targeted government intervention—particularly around Stamp Duty reform and first-time buyer support—to help stabilise activity levels and restore confidence across the sector.

Our View

At Ross & Sons Estate Agents, we believe the market is entering a transitional phase rather than a downturn. While conditions are more challenging, opportunities remain for well-positioned buyers and realistic sellers.

Sellers should adopt competitive pricing strategies and be prepared for increased negotiation.

Buyers may benefit from improved choice and negotiating power in the months ahead.

Landlords and investors should carefully review portfolio performance and regulatory exposure before making decisions.

We will continue to provide clear, unbiased market insight as conditions evolve.

Address

Ross & Sons Estate Agents , Pioneer House, North Road
Ellesmere Port
CH651AD

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm
Saturday 9am - 5pm

Telephone

+441515425123

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