Reading time: 2 minutes
Written by: Ruth Stevenson, Director/Solicitor at Ives & Co Solicitors
The UK commercial property market showed signs of recovery as deal activity increased and the industrial and logistics sectors remained resilient. However, rising construction costs, outdated valuations and widespread underinsurance continued to create financial risks for property owners.
Reading time: 2 minutes
Written by: Ruth Stevenson, Director/Solicitor at Ives & Co Solicitors Bereaved partners experiencing financial hardship may qualify for a waiver of the usual UK settlement application fee. The policy applies to eligible family-visa holders who meet the destitution criteria, helping them secure greater stability after the death of their partner.
Reading time: 2 minutes
Written by: Ruth Stevenson, Director/Solicitor at Ives & Co Solicitors Artificial intelligence, automation and digital platforms are transforming how property law firms manage transactions and communicate with clients. From streamlined onboarding to predictive market analysis, technology could make commercial property work more efficient, accessible and data-driven.
Reading time: 2 minutes
Written by: Ruth Stevenson, Director/Solicitor at Ives & Co Solicitors Frozen income tax thresholds could move millions of pensioners into higher tax bands by the 2027/28 tax year. Even modest increases in pension income may create larger tax liabilities, reducing disposable income for older people already facing rising living costs.
Reading time: 2 minutes
Written by: Ruth Stevenson, Director/Solicitor at Ives & Co Solicitors
UK property prices recorded modest overall growth, but performance continued to vary considerably between regions. Differences in affordability, local demand, mortgage costs and economic conditions meant that some areas experienced stronger growth while others remained subdued.
Reading time: 2 minutes
Written by: Ruth Stevenson, Director/Solicitor at Ives & Co Solicitors Leaving a charitable gift in your Will allows you to support causes that matter to you while creating a meaningful legacy. A professionally prepared and regularly updated Will can balance charitable giving with provision for family members and other beneficiaries.
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Written by: Ruth Stevenson, Director/Solicitor at Ives & Co Solicitors Record property-insurance payouts demonstrate the growing financial impact of storms, flooding and freezing conditions on UK homes and businesses. Rising claim costs are also contributing to higher premiums, reinforcing the importance of resilience, adequate cover and careful assessment of environmental risks.
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Written by: Ruth Stevenson, Director/Solicitor at Ives & Co Solicitors The 2024 Tracker Survey highlights continuing concerns about trust, complaints and transparency within legal services. Although overall satisfaction increased, many consumers remained uncertain about complaint procedures, legal costs and whether raising concerns could affect their final bill.
Reading time: 2 minutes
Written by: Ruth Stevenson, Director/Solicitor at Ives & Co Solicitors Strong tenant demand and growing institutional investment have made the UK residential rental market attractive to domestic and international investors. Build-to-rent growth offers further opportunities, although landlords must account for changing regulation and their responsibilities towards tenants.
Reading time: 2 minutes
Written by: Ruth Stevenson, Director/Solicitor at Ives & Co Solicitors Real Estate Investment Trusts allow investors to gain exposure to income-producing property without purchasing buildings directly. Opportunities span residential property, logistics, data centres, healthcare and student accommodation, although performance and risk vary across sectors and regions.