• A new study has found that real estate is one of the most stressful industries in the UK
• Human health and social work ranked first, while public defence is in second
• HSE data was examined to find the number of self-reported stress illnesses per 100,000 workers 

New research has revealed the most stressful industries in the UK, with the human health and social work industry taking the top spot.  

The study, conducted by personal injury experts at Claims.co.uk, analysed HSE data to examine the number of stress-related illnesses caused or worsened by employment per 100,000 workers from March 2022 to March 2023; the highest number of stress illnesses determined the ranking.  

The human health and social work industry ranks first on the list; the study found that 3,530 people per 100,000 workers have been impacted by stress at work. However, this industry has one of the largest average salary ranges, between £17,000 to £63,000, and includes jobs such as doctors, therapists, and nursing home assistants.  

Public defence, which has an average salary range of £18,000 to £31,000, is revealed as the second most stressful industry. For every 100,000 workers, 3,260 reported a stress-related illness, meaning that security guards and prison officers are highly likely to suffer from work-related stress.  

The education industry is third on the list, which has an average salary range of £28,000 to £40,000. For every 100,000 workers, 2,720 people reported work-related stress, which is an overwhelming figure of almost 3 in 100.  

Ranking fourth on the list is the professional, scientific, and technical industry, which includes jobs such as solicitors and barristers, and has an average salary range of £25,000 to £48,000. The study revealed that for every 100,000 workers, 2,310 have suffered from work-related stress.  

The finance industry ranks fifth on the list, with 2,140 workers reporting a stress-related illness per 100,000 people. However, the finance industry has a high salary range, ranging from £28,000 to £54,000, where job roles include accountants and bankers. 

The real estate industry ranks sixth on the list, which has an average salary range of £26,000 to £54,000 and includes jobs such as estate agents and property managers. The study reveals that for every 100,000 workers, 2,070 reported a stress-related illness.  

The information and communication industry places seventh on the list, which has an average salary range of £24,000 to £44,000 and jobs such as IT workers and graphic designers. The study found that for every 100,000 workers, 1,870 people reported stress-related illnesses.   

The arts and entertainment industry is eighth on the list; for every 100,000 workers, 1,820 people reported a stress-related illness. The industry includes jobs such as art directors, makeup artists, and background actors, and has an average salary range of £25,000 to £47,000. 

Ranking ninth on the list is the wholesale and retail trade industry, where 1,530 people per 100,000 workers suffered from work-related stress. The average salary range is this industry is £19,000 to £34,000 and includes jobs such as sales administrators and retail cashiers. 

The accommodation and food service industry is tenth on the list, which includes jobs such as bar staff and restaurant workers and has an average salary range of £14,000 to £45,000; 1,430 people in this industry suffered from work-related stress per 100,000 workers. 

Tips On Making a Personal Injury Claim for Stress 

#1. Identify The Cause of Your Stress 

The most common causes for stress at work often arise from heavy workloads, lack of employer support, and workplace bullying. When starting a personal injury claim for emotional harm, it’s crucial to identify the cause of your stress. Legally, employers owe their employees a duty of care in the workplace, so it’s important to recognise when they have harmed your emotional health.   

#2. Make a Note of Your Emotions 

In order to identify the cause of work-related stress, it can be useful to make a note of your emotions on a daily basis. This can help you keep track of your emotional health and can allow you to determine whether your mental health has significantly worsened during your employment. These notes can also be a helpful source during GP appointments.  

#3. Speak to Your Employer About Any Concerns 

Before starting a personal injury claim, it can be helpful to vocalise your concerns to your employer where possible. Perhaps the situation could be mitigated through negotiation, such as requesting a lighter workload; however, if your employer refuses to consider your mental well-being when distributing heavy workloads, this could be a potential cause for a personal injury claim.  

#4. Keep Track of Any GP Appointments 

It’s crucial to keep track of any GP appointments and maintain these medical records – many personal injury claims have to be submitted within three years of when the injury/emotional harm occurred, so these records can help speed up personal injury claims.  

A spokesperson from Claims.co.uk,commented on the study: “We are currently living amid a mental health crisis, which means that it’s essential for us to look after ourselves and recognise when our mental wellbeing may be at risk, particularly in the workplace.” 

“It’s fundamental for employers to protect their employees’ mental health. One of the main ways this can be done is to regularly check in with employees, aiming to create an open environment to discuss thoughts and feelings.” 

Some people may assume that personal injury claims are limited to broken bones and cuts, but they also extend to what people can’t see, such as mental, emotional, or psychological harm; so, if you have experienced stress at work, it is in your best interest to speak to a legal professional.” 

This information was provided by personal injury experts at Claims.co.uk

• Gold is the most sought-after personal investment
• Silver is the second most popular, closely followed by oil in third
• The overall average search volume for all types of personal investments is 3,195,381 across America

A new study has revealed the most popular personal investments, with gold taking the top spot.

The study, conducted by financial publisher The Lazy Trader, used Google search data to examine the number of searches for each type of personal investment; each of these was combined with terms such as ‘investment tips’ and ‘tips’ to discover which ones had the highest search volume overall, thus determining the ranking.

The most popular personal investments are as follows:

The most searched personal investment in the US is gold, with an average monthly search volume of 1,191,827. Gold is a commodity that trades based on supply and demand; the ratio between supply and demand determines the price of gold at the time of the investment. With the elevated interest rates and the continual concerns of a recession in the US, gold can be a reliable long-term investment and outperform other assets like properties and different equities as it is easier to liquidate. There are also tax advantages in gold investments; gold prices have increased considerably in 2023 and have shown stability compared to other markets.

The second most searched personal investment is silver, with an average monthly search volume of 677,527. Silver is a valuable, hard asset when it comes to investments and is cheaper to invest in than gold, while still fighting inflation. Silver mining has gradually decreased since 2015, making it a valuable asset to invest in before it becomes a rarer raw material. Silver is used for many different purposes from machinery to medicine, and the global demand is constantly increasing the value of the commodity overall.

In third, with an average monthly search volume of 588,808, is oil. Oil is an essential commodity and is used globally every day. Due to the high demand of fossil fuels, oil supplies are decreasing while the demand remains high, resulting in oil becoming a more valuable resource. Oil has huge potential for big profits and positive return on investments (ROI).

Ranking the fourth most popular personal investment is natural gas, with an average monthly search volume of 150,880. Natural gas is another fossil fuel that comes with its investment advantages. It is environmentally friendly and more affordable than coal and gas. With growing concerns about global warming and ways to make the planet greener, natural gas is already used in replacement of coal to reduce fuel emissions into the atmosphere (ROI).

In fifth place is forex, with an average monthly search volume of 85,112. Forex is a foreign exchange market that operates globally, 24 hours a day, five days a week. As well as its convenient operating hours, forex has low transaction costs as its trading has lower fees than other financial markets. The market has high liquidity, meaning you can buy and sell different currencies without affecting the price, which is more appealing to investors as it reduces the chances of a loss in profit.

Coming in sixth place is real estate, with an average monthly search volume of 81,397. Investing in real estate can be an easy money maker with incomes from rent and profit generated by certain business activities that take place on the invested property. It is a reliable investment in terms of generating steady cash flow, which only strengthens over time as you pay down your mortgage, resulting in more equity.

Copper is the seventh most sought-after personal investment, with an average monthly search volume of 69,468. Copper is a popular commodity, and due to the coronavirus pandemic, mining has slowed down; companies could even struggle to mine at all if the price of copper drops. Copper can be a risky investment as it is recyclable and is less precious than other metals, yet it is used in many different industries, from building industries to automobiles. Copper is key in renewable energy and will be essential for protecting the environment, which suggests a reliable investment in the long term.

In eighth place is options, with an average monthly search volume of 51,448. Options trading is the act of buying and selling a stock or ETF at a certain price within a set timeframe. Options give you more control over your investments and can therefore be less risky than equities as they require less financial commitment.

Ranking as the ninth most popular personal investment is penny stocks, with an average monthly search volume of 41,351. Penny stocks are very low cost in comparison to other forms of investments, which makes them accessible to investors with both low and high capital. They often show great potential for high returns if the penny stocks maintain substantial growth. Stocks that have lost value or become dormant may be big money-makers in the future, meaning a small investment could go a long way.

The tenth most sought-after personal investment, with an average monthly search volume of 34,533, is platinum. Platinum remains valuable and in demand across all industries due to its non-corrosive properties and diverse use across different industries. Platinum is an easy investment to liquidate to get cash quickly instead of stocks or bonds, which is a longer process.

Robert Colville, CEO of The Lazy Trader commented on the findings:

“When it comes to choosing the right personal investment for yourself, it can be difficult weighing up the pros and cons. It is important to be well educated on where you invest your money, as some methods will be more successful than others; make sure you have conducted extensive research and remain aware of what your choice of investments will entail.”

“It is interesting to see which investments Americans are most eager to try and learn more about. With an unpredictable economy and the constant changes in prices of stocks and commodities, people should be warier of fluctuations in these environments and ensure they put their money into a reliable form of personal investment.”

• Gold is the most sought-after personal investment
• Silver is the second most popular, closely followed by oil in third
• The overall average search volume for all types of personal investments is 3,195,381 across America

A new study has revealed the most popular personal investments, with gold taking the top spot.

The study, conducted by financial publisher The Lazy Trader, used Google search data to examine the number of searches for each type of personal investment; each of these was combined with terms such as ‘investment tips’ and ‘tips’ to discover which ones had the highest search volume overall, thus determining the ranking.

The most popular personal investments are as follows:

The most searched personal investment in the US is gold, with an average monthly search volume of 1,191,827. Gold is a commodity that trades based on supply and demand; the ratio between supply and demand determines the price of gold at the time of the investment. With the elevated interest rates and the continual concerns of a recession in the US, gold can be a reliable long-term investment and outperform other assets like properties and different equities as it is easier to liquidate. There are also tax advantages in gold investments; gold prices have increased considerably in 2023 and have shown stability compared to other markets.

The second most searched personal investment is silver, with an average monthly search volume of 677,527. Silver is a valuable, hard asset when it comes to investments and is cheaper to invest in than gold, while still fighting inflation. Silver mining has gradually decreased since 2015, making it a valuable asset to invest in before it becomes a rarer raw material. Silver is used for many different purposes from machinery to medicine, and the global demand is constantly increasing the value of the commodity overall.

In third, with an average monthly search volume of 588,808, is oil. Oil is an essential commodity and is used globally every day. Due to the high demand of fossil fuels, oil supplies are decreasing while the demand remains high, resulting in oil becoming a more valuable resource. Oil has huge potential for big profits and positive return on investments (ROI).

Ranking the fourth most popular personal investment is natural gas, with an average monthly search volume of 150,880. Natural gas is another fossil fuel that comes with its investment advantages. It is environmentally friendly and more affordable than coal and gas. With growing concerns about global warming and ways to make the planet greener, natural gas is already used in replacement of coal to reduce fuel emissions into the atmosphere (ROI).

In fifth place is forex, with an average monthly search volume of 85,112. Forex is a foreign exchange market that operates globally, 24 hours a day, five days a week. As well as its convenient operating hours, forex has low transaction costs as its trading has lower fees than other financial markets. The market has high liquidity, meaning you can buy and sell different currencies without affecting the price, which is more appealing to investors as it reduces the chances of a loss in profit.

Coming in sixth place is real estate, with an average monthly search volume of 81,397. Investing in real estate can be an easy money maker with incomes from rent and profit generated by certain business activities that take place on the invested property. It is a reliable investment in terms of generating steady cash flow, which only strengthens over time as you pay down your mortgage, resulting in more equity.

Copper is the seventh most sought-after personal investment, with an average monthly search volume of 69,468. Copper is a popular commodity, and due to the coronavirus pandemic, mining has slowed down; companies could even struggle to mine at all if the price of copper drops. Copper can be a risky investment as it is recyclable and is less precious than other metals, yet it is used in many different industries, from building industries to automobiles. Copper is key in renewable energy and will be essential for protecting the environment, which suggests a reliable investment in the long term.

In eighth place is options, with an average monthly search volume of 51,448. Options trading is the act of buying and selling a stock or ETF at a certain price within a set timeframe. Options give you more control over your investments and can therefore be less risky than equities as they require less financial commitment.

Ranking as the ninth most popular personal investment is penny stocks, with an average monthly search volume of 41,351. Penny stocks are very low cost in comparison to other forms of investments, which makes them accessible to investors with both low and high capital. They often show great potential for high returns if the penny stocks maintain substantial growth. Stocks that have lost value or become dormant may be big money-makers in the future, meaning a small investment could go a long way.

The tenth most sought-after personal investment, with an average monthly search volume of 34,533, is platinum. Platinum remains valuable and in demand across all industries due to its non-corrosive properties and diverse use across different industries. Platinum is an easy investment to liquidate to get cash quickly instead of stocks or bonds, which is a longer process.

Robert Colville, CEO of The Lazy Trader commented on the findings:

“When it comes to choosing the right personal investment for yourself, it can be difficult weighing up the pros and cons. It is important to be well educated on where you invest your money, as some methods will be more successful than others; make sure you have conducted extensive research and remain aware of what your choice of investments will entail.”

“It is interesting to see which investments Americans are most eager to try and learn more about. With an unpredictable economy and the constant changes in prices of stocks and commodities, people should be warier of fluctuations in these environments and ensure they put their money into a reliable form of personal investment.”

Leading Real Estate Companies of the World® (LeadingRE), the global network of premier real estate firms, has announced the addition of 36 new international members to its professional community.  

The new member firms to have joined LeadingRE’s network last year include property businesses from the UK, Europe, United States, Canada, Latin America, Caribbean, Asia the Middle East, and Africa. This remarkable expansion brings the firm’s worldwide membership to 550, representing a network of more than 138,000 real estate associates in more than 70 countries worldwide. 

As an invitation-only business-to-business real estate community, LeadingRE interconnects top local and regional real estate firms across the world and supports their success with best-of-industry assets, like referrals, exclusive events, elite training and education, marketing and technology resources, and support.  

Chris Dietz, President of Global Operations at LeadingRE, commented: “Last year we experienced some global economic uncertainty and challenges including interest rates rises and unforeseen fiscal fluctuations. Real estate is a people business and by connecting professionals around the world, we can enhance our understanding of property markets – both locally and internationally. We are delighted to see such diverse new members from APAC, EMEA, LATAM and North America join our ever-expanding community of leading professionals. We look forward to continued growth in 2024 as we embrace another exiting global real estate market of opportunity.” 

Selected companies in the LeadingRE international network are recognised for their expertise and superior knowledge of both local and global markets. All LeadingRE members are vetted, not just for performance, but a continued commitment to quality customer experience.  

A full list of new LeadingRE member firms can be found below:  

Asia-Pacific: 

Cambridge Real Estate (Cambridge, New Zealand) 

Lodge Real Estate (Hamilton, New Zealand) 

Richmont’s (Sathon, Thailand) 

Canada: 

MacKay Real Estate (Wolfville, Nova Scotia) 

Real Estate Centre (Taber, Alberta) 

Team PowerHouse (Prince George, British Columbia) 

Boldt Realty Inc., Brokerage (St. Catharines, Ontario) 

Europe, Africa and Middle East: 

Boulevard Group (Nice, France) 

Castelhana Real Estate (Lisbon, Portugal) 

Ismail and Partners (Lagos, Nigeria) 

Maior Capital (Olbia, Italy) 

Oria Advisors (Lisbon, Portugal) 

Philip & Frank (Prague, Czech Republic) 

San Patrik Real Estate (Zagreb, Croatia) 

Savoir Prive Properties (Dubai UAE) 

Strand Properties (Marbella, Spain)  

The London Broker (London, United Kingdom) 

Latin America and the Caribbean: 

CENTRAL MAXRE SRL REAL ESTATE (Buenos Aires, Argentina) 

Dominican Properties (Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic) 

Panama Sovereign Realty (Pedasi, Panama) 

Peters & Romero Real Estate (Mexico City, Mexico) 

Propiedades Cancun (Cancun, Mexico) 

Vida & Co. Ltd. (San Ignacio, Belize) 

United States 

Chisum Realty Group (Angel Fire, New Mexico) 

Christie’s International Real Estate Bluegrass (Lexington, Kentucky) 

ClearView Realty, LLC (El Paso, Texas) 

Denovo Realty (Melbourne, Florida) 

DiPietro Group Real Estate (Windham, New Hampshire) 

DJ & Lindsey Real Estate (Saint Augustine, Florida) 

Galles Properties (Pagosa Springs, Colorado) 

Hogan Associates Christie’s International Real Estate (Middletown, Rhode Island) 

Homepage Realty (Louisville, Kentucky) 

Huntington & Ellis, A Real Estate Agency (Las Vegas, Nevada) 

Liz Moore & Associates (Williamsburg, Virginia) 

Meservier & Associates (Auburn, Maine) 

St. James Properties (St. James, North Carolina) 

Wallace Real Estate (Knoxville, Tennessee)

Touchstone Education celebrates a century of its most popular course by giving away prizes worth over £100,000

The business grew by almost a third in 2023

Touchstone Education, a leading property investment education firm based in Doncaster, is celebrating the start of the year with a major milestone, having delivered its 100^th Wealth Through Property event. 

The milestone comes off the back of what has been a very successful year for the business, which grew by almost a third (30%) in 2023. Built on the founders’ 42 years of property investment experience, this is the business’ 9^th consecutive year of growth during its 9-year history, as more and more people seek support and education around investment in a difficult socio-economic climate.

Touchstone Education’s ever-popular Wealth Through Property (WTP) programme is a two-day event designed to empower individuals to achieve financial freedom and has become a cornerstone in Touchstone’s commitment to providing expert guidance and strategies for property investment success. 

Last year alone, the WTP event welcomed over 7,000 individuals, more than a tenth (14%) of which went on to become permanent members of Touchstone’s Wealth Academy programme. 

In celebration of this remarkable achievement, more than £100,000 worth of fabulous prizes were given away to seven lucky attendees during the two-day event. The first five of these lucky winners received a Golden Ticket for a one-on-one coaching session with Co-Founder, Aniko Smith, renowned for her insights into mindset and wealth creation. Two additional attendees received the exceptional grand prize, which included a mentoring session with both of the founders Paul Smith and Aniko Smith, plus an unforgettable all-expenses-paid private jet trip to Monaco. 

Paul Smith and Aniko Smith, co-founders of Touchstone Education, commented: “Despite the urban myth that 2023 was a challenging year in property investment, we successfully showed thousands of people that building real wealth through property is not only possible but that many of our Wealth Academy members are doing just that. We know that building wealth is a choice because we both started from very modest backgrounds. Enabling people to create a life for themselves and their loved ones, irrespective of their background, class, or race, is something we are incredibly proud of. The fact that we’ve just reached this milestone is testament to the value and impact of our offering. Critical to our success in helping others build wealth are our amazing coaches who have all done it themselves. Here’s to our next 100 events and continuing to support our community!” 

One of Touchstone Education’s first students, key speaker, and now a successful entrepreneur herself, Abi Hookway also adds: “The success stories are a testament to the Wealth Through Property event. Celebrating 100 events is a remarkable achievement, marking moments of reclaiming lives and redirecting individuals toward their true callings.” 

For more information on Touchstone Education, head to https://touchstoneeducation.com/

Lochview Guest House is now available for acquisition at an unmissable reduced price of Offers Over£550,000.

A testament to Highland living, this remarkable property offers a unique blend of elegance and functionality, boasting breathtaking panoramic views of Loch Broom and the Beinn Dearg mountain range.  

Key features include:

• 7 Ensuite Guest Bedrooms
• Self-Contained Owner’s Accommodation with two Double Bedrooms, Lounge, Kitchen, downstairs toilet, Utility and Garage 
• Gift Shop or Office
• Captivating Views of Loch Broom from Guest Lounge/Conservatory
• ¼ Acre Private Garden with Right of Way Access to the Loch
• Ample Parking for 9 Cars
• Step Free Access

TURNKEY OPERATION: A fully furnished and equipped establishment, Lochview Guest House stands ready to operate as a very successful going concern in a popular holiday destination. Alternatively, it could become a spacious family home, offering real flexibility to the discerning investor.

EXCELLENT LOCATION: Situated on the popular North Coast 500 route and in proximity to local attractions, Ullapool’s vibrant community and the ferry to the Outer Hebrides, Lochview Guest House serves as an ideal base for exploring the wonders of the Scottish Highlands. 

GREAT REVIEWS: The property has garnered acclaim from previous guests, with positive reviews showcased on our website, Google and TripAdvisor. The promising trajectory of 2024 reservations points towards a lucrative future for potential owners.

The decision to reduce the price to Offers Over £550,000 is motivated by the current owner’s commitment to pursue a new business venture in Inverness, creating a rare chance for astute investors or individuals seeking a premium business and/or residence.

Seize this unparalleled opportunity to own such a prestigious property at a compelling price. The 2024 market demand for such a gem is expected to be high and we anticipate a swift response from those who recognise the value of this prime investment.

Your Highland haven awaits!

Interested parties are invited to contact Simon Fraser for comprehensive details and to arrange a private viewing.

Eczacıbaşı Group’s VitrA Tiles has been applauded for its innovative use of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies, becoming the first ceramics producer to join the World Economic Forum’s Global Lighthouse Network, highlighting its pioneering role in 4IR adoption.

VitrA Tiles, the leading ceramics division of Türkiye’s Eczacıbaşı Group, is the latest member of the Global Lighthouse Network (GLN), recognised as a Factory Lighthouse among 21 new additions. This induction into the World Economic Forum’s initiative underlines their leadership in manufacturing innovation.

At the Davos Summit on January 15, 2024, CEOs Atalay Gümrah of Eczacıbaşı Group and Hasan Pehlivan of VitrA Tiles gave speeches at the award ceremony. They discussed the strategic scaling of Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies across their production networks and the role of tech-enhanced operations in their success.

VitrA Tiles being the first in the ceramic tile sector to be acknowledged by the World Economic Forum for its use of 4IR technologies marks a significant industry landmark.

Innovation and Growth in Response to Challenges

Atalay Gümrah, CEO of Eczacıbaşı Holding, shared his joy on this achievement, stating, “We are thrilled that our Bozüyük Production Facility has been selected as one of GLN’s Factory Lighthouses, in recognition of the leadership we have shown in deploying Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies. Confronted with manufacturing disruptions from climate change, financial volatility, and geopolitical crises causing energy price fluctuations in Türkiye, this accolade emphasises our approach to transform these challenges into drivers of innovation and growth, leveraging 4IR to strengthen our operational competitiveness.”

The GLN consists of manufacturing leaders who have excelled in applying 4IR technologies to transform their factories, value chains, and business models, achieving remarkable financial and operational benefits. The Factory Lighthouses are testament to how manufacturing innovations have improved performance and enabled companies to navigate market volatility successfully.

Notable Achievements from Digital Transformation Initiatives

VitrA Tiles’ Bozüyük facility, following its digital transformation agenda focused on intelligent process and production controls, recorded a 19% increase in Overall Equipment Effectiveness, a 56% drop in scrap, a 14% reduction in energy usage, and a 43% increase in recycled material use in the past year.

Reflecting on this progress, Hasan Pehlivan, CEO of VitrA Tiles, remarked, “While our solutions might be unique, the challenges we face are global, and we recognise the importance of a global community in addressing these challenges. The future of manufacturing hinges on uniting global efforts to tackle significant challenges. The GLN is a vital part of this journey, and I am excited about this latest initiative from the World Economic Forum.”

AI and Machine Learning Revolutionising Global Manufacturing

As the world grapples with swift technological changes, geopolitical uncertainties, and climate challenges, Global Lighthouse Network members are adopting avant-garde technologies for enhanced productivity and sustainability. Employing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning, these Lighthouse factories are pioneering a global manufacturing revolution. Notably, 85% of Lighthouse factories experienced under a 10% revenue decline during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating a resilience not common among other manufacturers.

These Lighthouse factories are redefining global manufacturing standards, integrating innovative solutions across their networks, and leading the way towards a sustainable future and a new era of transformative change. This strategic emphasis on innovation is revolutionising the manufacturing landscape, demonstrating the impactful role of advanced technology in solving current global issues.

For most, entering into the property market in 2024 seems like a daunting task. With inflation rates rising, and landlords showing hesitance to invest, the landscape appears challenging. However, there are compelling reasons to consider property investment this year. Our expert in the property investment market, Adam Toller, gives insight into the benefits of investing in property this year. 

A buyer’s haven

Adam Toller, the owner of a third-generation property management company, states that the current property market is distinctly a buyers’ market, not a sellers’ one. This shift indicates a thriving environment for landlords looking to invest. Property values are expected to decrease by approximately 4% annually, presenting unique opportunities for strategic investments.

Interest rate forecasts and investment implications

A key factor shaping the 2024 property market is the anticipated trajectory of interest rates. Savills, a prominent property company, forecasts a significant shift in the Bank of England’s monetary policy. They expect the central bank to initiate interest rate cuts in the second half of 2024, reducing its base rate to 4.75% by the year’s end, down from the current 5.25%. This trend is projected to continue, with rates potentially falling to 1.75% by 2027. 

Expert insight: long-term strategy is key

Adam emphasises the importance of a long-term investment perspective. His expertise underscores the potential for long-term gains, despite short-term market fluctuations. He insists that investing in property should never be a short-term goal to reach and that biting the bullet will allow your property portfolio to reap the rewards in the future. 

Opportunities for cash buyers

For cash buyers, Adam states that the current market offers even more advantages. Without the burden of high interest rates, they can directly expand their property portfolios without having to pay money above and beyond what they already have. However, those relying on borrowing might see a reduced return on investment, at least in the short term.

Further benefits to investing

With a potential increase in demand for rental properties, investors can benefit from steady rental income. This is particularly advantageous in a buyers’ market where purchase prices are lower but rental demand remains strong.

Additionally, with the forecasted reduction in interest rates by the Bank of England, mortgage costs could become more affordable. This makes borrowing to invest in property more attractive, especially for first-time investors or those looking to expand their portfolios.

Property investment can also offer various tax deductions, including mortgage interest, property tax, operating expenses, and depreciation. These benefits can significantly improve the overall return on investment. Further to this, real estate often serves as a hedge against inflation. As inflation rises, so do property values and rental incomes, protecting the purchasing power of your investment. 

Professional guidance on navigating the property investment market

The property investment landscape is a complex and very dynamic place. For those seeking to navigate this market, professional advice can be invaluable. Toller Property Group offers expert guidance and insights into property management and investment strategies, tailored to the evolving market conditions of 2024.

For more expert advice and insight into property management and the property investment market, visit Toller Property Group, or find out more on LinkedIn. 

Marking the end of 2023 with a $740 billion valuation, the global furniture industry is now gearing up for the International Istanbul Furniture Fair, set for January 23-28. This event, known for its traditional and prestigious role in the sector, is expected to attract 200,000 professionals from across the globe.

The global furniture sector is converging for the International Istanbul Furniture Fair (IIFF2024), taking place from January 23 to 28. This event, a joint venture between TUYAP Fair Organisation Group and Mos Fair Organisation and supported by the Furniture Associations Federation (MOSFED), is set to welcome 200,000 professionals from 200 countries. The fair will feature over a thousand companies, representing 3,000 brands, at both the TUYAP Fair and Congress Center and Istanbul Fair Center.

As an influential event in the furniture industry, the fair, themed “Visit Istanbul, Experience Istanbul,” is dedicated to showcasing the latest 2024 designs from a range of product groups.

“We continue to produce with over 45,000 manufacturers”

“In an industry that grows annually, our commitment to delivering superior products is unwavering. This approach has established us as a leading force in global furniture manufacturing. We maintain our production with over 45,000 manufacturers across all product ranges. By creating impactful, high-quality designs, we engage our stakeholders through IIFF and display our industry expertise. We invite the entire sector to our fair, where we will feature the furniture trends for 2024,” announced Ahmet Güleç, President of MOSFED, the backer of IIFF and a pivotal figure in the Turkish furniture industry.

“We organise one of the world’s largest furniture fairs”

İlhan Ersözlü, General Manager of Tuyap Fairs Organisation, spoke on the global prominence of IIFF, saying:

“Organising a fair across various sites in our industry is a globally unique challenge. But, Tuyap has adeptly handled the third edition of IIFF at both the Tuyap Fair and Congress Center and Istanbul Fair Center, ensuring all preparations are meticulous. We’re hosting one of the largest furniture fairs in the world. Our impact on enhancing both national and sectoral export figures is considerable. At IIFF2024, we aim to bring together 200,000 business figures from various countries with 3,000 brands, through our international offices and extensive network. We invite all interested parties to this premier industry event in Istanbul.”

Encouraging a Vibrant Setting for New Business Ventures

ResearchAndMarkets’ data indicates that the global furniture market, closing 2023 with $739.44 billion, is projected to grow to $935.9 billion by 2027. Türkiye, with its annual production valued at $12 billion, is gearing up to host its international partners. The IIFF will feature an array of furniture including modern modular, luxury, beds and bases, baby and children’s, youth room, garden, office-school furniture, and accessories.

IIFF2024, set to last six days, will organise its exhibition halls at the Istanbul Fair Center and Tuyap Fair and Congress Center, segmented by product types. This will allow visitors to deeply explore a diverse range of products. Additionally, the fair aims to create a dynamic environment conducive to fostering new business collaborations.

• Almost half (45%) of first-time buyers get help from Government schemes
• More than a third (34%) use the bank of mum and dad to get on the property ladder
• Only one in ten (11%) first-time buyers didn’t receive any support to purchase their property
• Most first-time buyers are unaware of additional house buying fees with only one in ten (7%) aware of mortgage admin fees
• Uswitch mortgage expert, Kellie Steed, outlines key factors to consider before buying a property

In the midst of a cost of living crisis, getting on the property ladder can be financially daunting. Uswitch mortgages conducted a recent survey to investigate purchase trends amongst first-time buyers to identify how they afford their properties. Uswitch mortgage expert, Kellie Steed, also shares tips about what to consider before buying your first home. 

Most common first-time buyer purchase methods: 

The Uswitch survey revealed that almost half (45%) of first-time buyers purchased their property with help from a government scheme. The most common scheme used was the First Homes scheme (36%), followed by a Lifetime ISA (29%). 

Kellie Steed, Uswitch mortgage expert, commented: “When people think about first-time buyer schemes, their mind often jumps to Help to Buy. But the Help to Buy equity loan scheme is no longer available in England, Northern Ireland or Scotland, although those in Wales who are eligible can still apply. 

“For English homebuyers, one of the alternatives is the First Homes scheme, which was the most popular amongst survey respondents. Offering a 30 to 50% discount on the market value of a property, it may help those struggling to make that leap onto the property ladder due to affordability. However, there are limitations on the type of properties you can purchase, and certain eligibility criteria apply.”

The second most common purchase method was buying with a ‘traditional’ mortgage (44%). The majority (38%) of first-time buyers who bought a house with a mortgage opted for a standard variable-rate mortgage, or a fixed-rate mortgage (32%). 

34% of first-time buyers got help from their parents to get on the property ladder, with 24% getting a loan from their parents for the deposit, and 10% of buyers’ parents gifting them money towards their purchase. 

In terms of ownership, the survey also revealed that almost half (48%) of first-time buyers are the sole property owners, while 33% bought with a partner. 

Additional costs:

Kellie Steed, Uswitch mortgage expert, commented: “It can be easy for first-time buyers to only focus on rates when looking at mortgage deals. While the rate is really important in working out how expensive your repayments will be each month, buyers should also consider the fees involved. A mortgage deal with a low headline rate can sometimes wind up being more expensive than higher rate deals due to fees. 

“On average, the arrangement fee alone sets a first-time buyer back around £345^[1]. But this is an average figure – in reality, some first-time buyers may pay nothing while some may face a cost of over £2,000. That’s why it’s so important for prospective homeowners to be aware of the fees associated with a mortgage. It’s a similar situation for legal fees, with the range paid varying from £0 to £600, with an average of £89^[2].”

 When factoring additional expenses into the purchase budget, the survey revealed that most first-time buyers are unaware of some important financial considerations prior to buying their property:

• Despite almost half of first-time buyers purchasing with a mortgage, only 7% were aware of the mortgage admin fee prior to securing their mortgage.
• 79% were unaware of stamp duty costs, for which the government have implemented a first-time buyer stamp duty relief measure in England and Northern Ireland – if you’re buying a property up to £425,000, you don’t have to pay stamp duty.^[3]  
• Less than half (45%) were aware of survey costs. When buying a property, a valuation (checking if the property is worth what you’re offering) is essential and usually involves paying a fee to your lender. A survey is more detailed than a valuation and checks that the property is structurally sound, so can be beneficial. Survey fees vary depending on the level of detail requested and the size and value of the property. 
• Only 40% were aware of conveyancing fees, which can cost between £800 – £2000^[4]. 

Uswitch mortgage expert, Kellie Steed, offers top tips on what to consider before becoming a first-time buyer:

“Before becoming a first-time buyer there are a range of factors to consider. You’ll need to assess whether you’re financially prepared, and what support you may need, as well as think about the property itself in terms of what you’re looking for. 

• “Budgeting for additional costs – Ensure you account for all additional expenses associated with buying a property. There are several costs to consider on top of the mortgage payments. Mortgages themselves come with additional admin fees and costs like surveying and land registry fees are unavoidable. There are also outgoings to account for once you’ve moved into the property, such as insurance, utilities and council tax. Factoring these into your budget early on will ensure you’re prepared and can actually afford to buy. 
• “Deciding what type of mortgage to get – The type of mortgage that’s best for you will depend on your financial situation/stability, preferences and long-term plans. Make sure you seek advice to help with the process – a mortgage broker can help you review all your options and decide which is best suited to your circumstances.
• “Be prepared for the property search – Firstly, you’ll need to decide on which non-negotiable features you want the property to have. You may have to be lenient on any additional features based on your budget, so it’s important to define your criteria. You should also make sure you have a checklist for attending viewings, including questions to ask the estate agent. 

Find out more at Uswitch mortgages.