Russell & Butler

09/11/2026

A Welcome Boost for First Time Buyers and Home Sellers

New savings reforms could unlock opportunities for sellers across Britain

Fresh government plans to make buying a first home more achievable offer encouraging news for homeowners considering a move.

A new First Time Buyer ISA will launch in April 2029, allowing eligible savers to put aside up to £4,000 annually and receive a 25% government bonus when purchasing a qualifying property worth up to £450,000.

Importantly for sellers, this support is not restricted to new builds. That means existing homes could appeal to buyers who have built stronger deposits through the scheme.

There is also a more immediate change. From 29 October 2026, the withdrawal charge for existing Lifetime ISA holders buying above the £450,000 property limit has fallen from 25% to 20%, potentially giving some purchasers greater flexibility.

For sellers, the message is positive: measures that help first time buyers save and widen their choices could support more interest in homes already on the market.

Call us today if you would like a conversation and a free valuation.

06/11/2026

November 2026 Children-friendly events near Buckingham

Make autumn memorable with inspiring adventures for all the family

As autumn settles in and the landscape takes on its rich seasonal colours, it is a wonderful time for children and families to learn, create and explore together. From crisp woodland walks and wildlife discoveries to fascinating museums, hands on creative activities and days out at local attractions, there are countless ways to embrace the season. These enjoyable real-world experiences can inspire curiosity, encourage imagination and build confidence, while creating precious opportunities for families to spend quality time together and make lasting autumn memories.

Buckingham Christmas Lights Switch-On
Date and time: Thursday, 26th November 2026 | 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Outside the Buckingham Old Gaol / Cattle Pens area, Market Hill
Description: Kick off the festive season with a magical evening of family entertainment! The event begins at 4:30 PM with the opening of the Christmas Market in the Cattle Pens. Families can enjoy live music performances, festive holiday shopping, and delicious hot food stalls before the main event. Children will love the vibrant community atmosphere as the town center lights up for the holidays.

Buckingham Christmas Parade & Community Fair
Date and time: Saturday, 12th December 2026 | 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM (Fair starts immediately following the parade)
Location: Buckingham Community Centre, Cornwalls Meadow (Parade loops through the town centre)
Description: Watch the spectacular annual Christmas Parade as colorful floats, walking groups, and marching bands wind their way through the historic streets. Afterward, head straight into the Community Centre for the festive Community Fair. It is packed with child-friendly activities like professional face painting, a children's lucky dip, and tombola games, alongside stalls selling unique handmade gifts, holiday crafts, and chocolates.

Please verify the event details and any registration requirements by visiting the respective event websites or contacting the organisers directly.

PLUS:
The Grand Junction is a popular High Street restaurant with a relaxed yet lively atmosphere. Its diverse menu features contemporary British and European inspired dishes made with fresh local ingredients. Friendly staff and stylish interiors make it ideal for casual lunches or evening meals with family and friends.

06/11/2026

06/11/2026

Over 15,000 estate agencies in the UK, but how do you choose the best?

The Best Estate Agent Guide compares every agent in the UK every year against the same criteria giving you an independent and trustworthy source of information.

06/11/2026

Storage That Works Through Winter

Upgrade your outdoor storage this November and keep garden essentials protected, tidy and easy to find

As colder, wetter weather arrives, November is a great time to make sure your outdoor storage is ready for winter.

Start by clearing out anything you no longer need, then organise the remaining items with shelving, hooks and weatherproof boxes. Garden tools, cushions, plant pots and outdoor accessories are much easier to manage when everything has its own place.

If you have a shed, check the roof, doors and seals for any obvious gaps or signs of wear. A quick tidy and a few practical improvements can make the space feel more secure and easier to use throughout the colder months.

Storage benches and outdoor cupboards are also useful for smaller gardens, helping you keep essentials close at hand without creating clutter.

Upgrading your outdoor storage this November is a simple way to protect belongings, improve organisation and keep your garden looking neat and well prepared for winter.

05/11/2026

🏠St. Rumbolds Lane, Buckingham, MK18🏠
💷ASKING PRICE £349,995💷

🛏A beautifully presented three double bedroom cottage situated within a short walking distance of the town centre, local amenities & Chandos park🛏

https://www.russellandbutler.com/Property/Details/353941

05/11/2026

Lifetime ISA Change Offers Another Boost for Sellers

Lower withdrawal charges could give some first-time buyers greater flexibility

There is more encouraging news for sellers following changes to the Lifetime ISA rules announced in the Budget.

First-time buyers using a Lifetime ISA to purchase a home above the £450,000 property limit will now face a reduced withdrawal charge of 20%, down from 25%.

For buyers looking at higher-value homes, this means less of their savings will be lost if they need to access their Lifetime ISA funds for a purchase above the current threshold. In practical terms, that could leave some buyers with more money available towards their move.

For sellers, particularly in areas where property values regularly exceed £450,000, this is a welcome development. Greater flexibility for first-time buyers can help support demand and make it easier for more purchasers to proceed.

Anything that improves buyer confidence and purchasing power has the potential to support smoother transactions and healthier market activity.

Call us today if you would like a conversation and a free valuation.

05/11/2026

Our November magazine is out now! Click, tap, or copy & paste the link below to check out the new edition and your very own digital copy!

https://bit.ly/4zyG8c2

04/11/2026

Step Into Winter in Style

Create a practical and welcoming entrance that keeps November mess neatly under control

November brings wetter weather, heavier coats and muddier shoes, making it the perfect time to create a dedicated winter entrance zone.

Start with a sturdy doormat to catch dirt before it travels through the house, then add hooks for coats, scarves and bags. A compact bench makes changing footwear easier, while baskets or low-level storage can keep shoes and boots organised.

An umbrella stand is another useful addition, helping to prevent dripping umbrellas from cluttering the hallway. If space allows, a slim console table or wall shelf can provide a handy spot for keys, gloves and everyday essentials.

Choose finishes that complement your existing décor so the area feels like part of the home rather than purely practical storage. Warm lighting, a small mirror or a seasonal plant can add extra personality.

Creating a winter entrance zone this November helps keep your home tidy, organised and welcoming throughout the colder months.

03/11/2026

House Price Forecasts Offer Encouragement for Landlords

Positive house price forecasts strengthen property’s long-term appeal for landlords

The latest Office for Budget Responsibility forecast offers welcome encouragement for landlords looking at the long-term value of property investment.

Average UK house prices are expected to rise by around 2.5% in 2027, with further growth forecast in the years that follow. For landlords, that strengthens the case for holding well-chosen properties as long-term assets, with the potential to benefit from capital growth alongside rental income.

The outlook also points towards a gradually more active housing market, with property transactions expected to increase over the coming years. Greater market activity can support confidence, improve liquidity and create more options for landlords who may wish to expand, refinance or eventually sell.

While higher costs and regulation remain important considerations, the bigger picture is encouraging. Property continues to demonstrate its long-term appeal, and the latest forecasts suggest landlords who take a considered approach could still be placed to benefit from future growth.