What's the story? Property Market headlines - June 2026.

Political change may have dominated the headlines in June, but many of the property market’s biggest challenges remained the same.

With Keir Starmer stepping down as PM and Andy Burnham’s ‘Manchesterism’ vision driving fresh debate around growth, housing and regional investment, attention has once again turned to affordability, housebuilding and the future of the private rental sector. Calls for stamp duty reform have gathered momentum, while landlords continue to adapt to the first phase of the Renters’ Rights Act and what it means for the sector.

And, despite political uncertainty, activity across the market continues. Investors are seeking opportunities, landlords are refining their strategies, and industry leaders are debating how best to improve access to homeownership and increase housing supply.

Is stamp duty reform back on the agenda?

Stamp duty needs urgent reform, MPs say

First seen in Mortgage Finance Gazette

The Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee has urged the Government to review both stamp duty and council tax as part of wider efforts to improve housing affordability and help first-time buyers onto the property ladder. The committee also called for reforms to the Lifetime ISA, arguing that key parts of the system no longer reflect today’s housing market.

Commenting on the debate, Together’s Chief Commercial Officer Ryan Etchells argued that affordability challenges stem from a shortage of housing supply as much as taxation.

“The real key to increasing affordability is creating an environment where private housebuilders can financially justify actioning new and viable projects.”

What it signals: Pressure is growing to address barriers that make moving home and getting onto the property ladder more difficult. While tax reform could help stimulate activity, increasing housing supply remains the longer-term challenge facing policymakers.

The new reality for landlords

Landlords share the most expensive mistakes hitting property profits

First seen in The Independent

One in five buy-to-let landlords admitted they had missed opportunities to increase either rental income or the value of their properties. Others highlighted costly mistakes, including selling at the wrong time, underestimating repair and maintenance costs, accepting insufficient deposits and failing to budget accurately for professional fees.

Commenting on the findings, Together’s Chief Commercial Officer Ryan Etchells said:

“A healthy rental sector is crucial to a well-functioning housing market and there are numerous opportunities for property professionals to achieve good yields.”

The findings come as landlords continue to adapt to the Renters’ Rights Act and its implications for the private rental sector. As the industry adjusts to new rules and responsibilities, many landlords are reassessing how they manage costs, risk and long-term returns.

What it signals: Demand for rental homes remains strong, but successful landlords are increasingly taking a professional, long-term approach. Thorough research, realistic budgeting and contingency planning remain essential for protecting returns, particularly as the sector adjusts to regulatory change.

Why auction buyers are still finding opportunity

Four ways to buy property

First seen in The i

Investor Dan Cheetham, an experienced property flipper, discussed how he used a £144,000 loan from Together to help fund the purchase of a £180,000 property. After spending £8,000 refurbishing the home, he was able to add substantial value, selling it for £260,000.

His story highlights the opportunities that can still be found through property auctions, where buyers are often working within tight completion deadlines of around 28 days.

Amy Schofield, Auction Sales Director at Together, advises prospective buyers to secure a mortgage agreement in principle ahead of any auction and thoroughly review the legal pack before placing a bid.

What it signals: Investors continue to seek opportunities despite market uncertainty. Auctions remain an attractive route for buyers looking to move quickly, acquire value-add assets and expand their portfolios, but success depends on preparation and due diligence.

Brexit, ten years later

What Brexit did to the economy, inflation and the housing market

First seen in The Independent

Ten years after the UK voted to leave the European Union, the property sector continues to reflect on the impact of one of the most significant political events in recent history.

The decade that followed included Covid-19, geopolitical instability, rising inflation and higher interest rates. Together Director Scott Clay noted that many households have experienced increased borrowing costs and affordability pressures during this period, while labour shortages and supply chain disruption have also affected housebuilding.

However, recent stability in interest rates and increased competition among lenders have helped create a more positive environment for borrowers.

What it signals: Brexit’s impact cannot be viewed in isolation given the number of major economic events that followed. What it has highlighted is the importance of adaptability. Investors, lenders and property professionals have continued to adjust their strategies, with many seeking greater value in regional markets across the North and Midlands.

So, what’s the story?

June's headlines weren't just about challenges. They showed a market continuing to move forward. Investors are still finding opportunities, landlords are refining their strategies, and policymakers are exploring ways to improve affordability and boost housing supply.

The common thread is one of adaptation and optimism. Despite ongoing uncertainty, activity remains strong and the search for solutions continues.

Want to be part of the conversation? Speak to our team to see how we can support your next move — whether that’s buying your own home, funding improvements, or investing in your next opportunity.