Digital deeds, lender handbook delays and tax adviser registration: eight property stories you might have missed

1. Treasury pushes ahead with tax adviser rules, despite pleas

The Law Society Gazette

Despite pleas to exempt conveyancers, the government is moving forward with new tax adviser registration rules.

This has prompted concerns the requirement will duplicate regulation, increase burdens and risk misleading consumers about the scope of conveyancing work.

2. Government support for PM Law clients

HM Land Registry

Following the closure of PM Law, tens of thousands of live cases have been left in limbo – including urgent conveyancing matters.

HM Land Registry is supporting affected home buyers and conveyancers.

3. First lender permits e-signatures on mortgage deeds

Estate Agent Today

Nationwide has become the first lender to allow electronic signatures without a witness on mortgage deeds.

4. New lender handbook launch delayed

The Law Society Gazette

The new UK Finance Mortgage Lenders Handbook will not launch on 1 March 2026 as previously planned.

The proposal to charge £50 to access the Handbook has also been paused.

5. Lengthier court backlogs despite decline in landlord claims

Property Industry Eye

Ministry of Justice figures show the median time from claim to repossession has risen to 27 weeks – two weeks longer than last year.

6. Reports of strong start to year for buying market

Today’s Conveyancer

Whilst average asking prices have held firm, elevated stock levels compared to 2024 are offering buyers choice.

7. Help to Buy revival reportedly being considered

The Negotiator

A news outlet reports that a sharp fall in new build sales has prompted the government to explore measures to stimulate buyer demand, according to a source.

However, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Housing says there are no plans for a Help to Buy scheme revival.

8. Home buying delays persist

Estate Agent Today

An Estate Agent trade body president has commented that over 30% of property sales take more than 17 weeks to exchange.