The Property Owners Directory has welcomed the 2.5 per cent cut to VAT, as a small boost for property owners who have to do building work or buy furnishings, though has urged caution, as Government will be looking to recover lost revenue by conducting thorough tax investigations and raising taxes in the medium-term.

The recent prosecution of a builder who made untrue claims about his credentials has proved a timely reminder for property owners of the importance of using recommended tradesmen and property professionals. Andy Stern of the Property Owners Directory says: “The main lesson to be learned from the unfortunate case of Richard Parker of R.P. Preservation is that property owners should be vigilant about whom they are using in their properties.

As property owners find it increasingly difficult to get good deals on remortgages, the Property Owners Directory is recommending homeowners and buy-to-let investors take a firm grip on the remortgage market and process. Andy Stern of the Property Owners Directory says: “This is a tough market as there are fewer remortgage products available. Some banks and lenders have started to lower rates in recent weeks and property owners and buy-to-let investors need be well organised if they want to secure the best deals."

18th June 2008 ---- The Property Owners Directory (POD) has issued 10 tips for homeowners on how to get the most from tradesmen, as recent reports reveal a dearth of recommended tradesmen in the marketplace. Data released by lenders and UK training bodies has revealed that some areas of the UK have a chronic shortage of tradesmen, and only 4 % of companies across the country are taking on new apprentices.

The Property Owners Directory (POD) has moved into top gear to ensure that the recent statistics compiled by Barclays are improved, helping people in the worst-affected areas to find quality tradesmen prepared to travel there. Barclays’ latest trade map of England and Wales reveals that there is a dearth of tradesmen in inner London with London boroughs such as Kensington, Westminster and Camden having the lowest proportion of plumbers and electricians anywhere in the country.