If buying a home is on your New Year 'to do' list, preparation is key. With competition heating up in the property market, getting mortgage advice and an Agreement in Principle early can give you the confidence and edge to secure the right home.

As the Autumn Budget approaches, the property market does something strangely predictable: it takes a collective sip of tea, raises an eyebrow, and decides to wait and see what happens next. Buyers who were enthusiastic a week ago suddenly hover in “nearly ready” mode, as if the Chancellor himself might pop up and personally adjust their mortgages.

If you’ve ever wondered what happens when an entire town collectively decides to kick off Christmas at exactly the same moment, wonder no more,Hockley has the answer. On Saturday 29th November, the streets will be filled with excited children clutching letters for Santa & adults trying to look calm while juggling hot chocolate and gift bags.

Selling a family home is about more than moving, it’s about managing a transition with clarity, care and confidence. Here’s how to approach your move in early 2026 with less stress and more ease.