Move iQ Podcast

In the latest episode of our accidental landlord series with Taylor Rose Solicitors, Phil Spencer is joined by legal experts Alex and Faye to explain the legal obligations that come with being a landlord in England. They’re talking you through everything you need to take care of such as gas and electrical safety checks, tenancy agreements, EPCs, deposit protection and property licensing.

They also explore what's changed under the Renters' Rights Act, including new tenancy rules, written statements of terms and tenants' rights to request pets, alongside further reforms still to come.

For new, ac...

Have you become an accidental landlord? Perhaps you've inherited a property, moved in with a partner, relocated for work or decided to rent out a home you can't sell.

Whatever the circumstances, becoming a landlord unexpectedly doesn't mean you have fewer legal responsibilities. And getting things wrong could prove costly.

In this episode, Phil Spencer is joined by legal experts Alex and Faye from Taylor Rose to explore what you need to know if you've found yourself becoming a landlord without necessarily planning to. From checking your mortgage and arranging the right insurance to property...

Thinking about relocating to a new area? Whether you're chasing a dream lifestyle, following a work opportunity, or simply craving a change, moving to an unfamiliar place can feel both exciting and overwhelming.

In this episode, Sara and Lexie share their personal experiences and practical advice on relocating successfully. They discuss how to avoid common mistakes, like falling in love with a house without considering the lifestyle around it, and why visiting an area at different times of day can be a game changer.

They also discuss the importance of community, how to meet people...

What's really happening in the property market across Northern England? We headed to Old Trafford to hear insights from local sales and lettings agents about the realities of buying, selling and renting in the region.

We're asking whether the North is becoming less affordable on the whole, how landlords are navigating new legislation, and what buyers and renters need to know about the current landscape in cities like Manchester, Liverpool, Blackpool and beyond.

Have you bought, sold or rented in the North recently? What surprised you most about the market? Let us know your thoughts...

Ever wondered how someone builds a property career from the ground up? In this episode, Sara turns the spotlight on her co-host, Lexie Carducci, to explore her journey from a childhood obsessed with floor plans to becoming a property developer, landlord, presenter and property finder in London's competitive market.

This conversation covers what it really takes to find your first property, the lessons learned from working in estate agency, the challenges of being a landlord under shifting legislation, and the emotional side of helping people relocate. Whether you're thinking about investing in property, curious about what a...

What's really happening in the Welsh property market? We headed to Newport for the Propertymark Conference to speak with local agents and industry professionals about the realities of buying, selling and renting in Wales.

We’re discussing pricing strategies, the impact of rental reforms, advice for first time buyers and tenants navigating a competitive market; this episode is packed with honest insights you won't find in listing photos. This conversation offers a real, unfiltered look at buying, selling and renting property in Wales today.

Have you bought, sold or rented in Wales? What surprised you mo...

Renting doesn't mean having to live in a beige waiting room! Sara and Lexie are exploring how to make a rental property feel like home without risking your deposit or overstepping your landlord's boundaries. “Portable personalisation”, creative styling tricks and helpful dos and don’ts; this conversation is packed with practical ideas for renters who want to inject personality into their space while staying within the rules.

Are you renting right now? What's the cleverest way you've personalised your space? Let us know your thoughts in the comments 💬

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Moving out of your parents’ house is exciting, but there is plenty nobody prepares you for. In this episode, Sara and Lexie share the lessons they wish they had known, covering budgeting beyond the rent, understanding bills, building good financial habits, communicating with landlords and handling the everyday realities of running your own home.

Whether you are preparing to move out or helping someone take that first step, this conversation is packed with honest stories and practical advice. As always, we’d love to hear from you down the comments!

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Thinking about moving to Scotland? Curious about how the Scottish property system compares to the rest of the UK? In this episode, Sara and Lexie sit down with Move iQ's own Digital Content Creator, Catriona, who is right in the middle of relocating from Hampshire to the Scottish Highlands.

The episode looks at the pros and cons of the buying system in Scotland, and whether the process moves faster than in the rest of the UK. Whether you're interested in how the different property systems work, or simply curious about what it takes to relocate hundreds of...

The kitchen is often described as the heart of the home, but designing or renovating one can feel overwhelming.

In this episode, Sara and Lexie are chatting to kitchen designer Faye Newman, host of the Love Your Kitchen podcast. They explore everything from layout mistakes and lighting hacks to affordable upgrades and trending material: everything you need to know about how to create a better kitchen on any budget.

Whether you're planning a full renovation, thinking about a simple refresh, or just curious about what makes a kitchen truly work, this episode is packed with...

With a rapidly ageing population representing the largest and fastest-growing group of homeowners in the UK, the conversation about making the right home move in later life has never been more important. Yet for many, the thought of leaving a home filled with decades of memories can feel overwhelming, and downsizing can come with many hidden challenges.

In this episode, Sara and Lexie speak to Susan Gregory, founder of Turners Oak, about the hidden emotional and practical challenges of downsizing, or as Susan prefers to call it, “rightsizing”. Whether you're considering a move yourself, supporting a parent thro...

Rental developments are on the rise, and it's not just about city centre flats anymore. Single family housing is quietly reshaping the rental landscape, offering families, professionals, and even retirees a new way to live without the pressure to buy. But what exactly is single family housing, and why is it becoming such a compelling option for so many people?

In this episode, Sara and Lexie sit down with Ged McPartlin, Managing Director of Simple Life Homes, to explore the rise of rental houses in suburban and commuter areas. Whether you're considering renting long term, curious about...

The Renters' Rights Act came into effect in May, bringing significant changes to the UK rental market. But what should every tenant and landlord know about navigating the new landscape? In this episode, Sara and Lexie are joined by Jan Hytch from Propertymark to break down the new rules of renting and separate fact from fear.

Whether you're a first time renter, an experienced tenant, or a landlord trying to understand your responsibilities under the new legislation, this episode offers practical, reassuring insight into what's changed, what hasn't, and what the future of renting in the UK...

Renting in today's market can feel overwhelming, especially with new legislation and rising costs making the process more competitive than ever, and even reliable renters are missing out. But with the right preparation and support, it doesn't have to be as stressful.

In this episode, Lexie and Sara are joined by Bruce Evans from RentGuarantor to discuss everything UK renters need to know in 2026. This conversation is packed with practical, honest advice for anyone looking to rent. They explain what a guarantor actually does and share insider tips on preparing for viewings, spotting red flags, and how...

Just picked up the keys to your first home? Congratulations! But before you start unpacking, there are a few essentials people often forget about.

Lexie and Sara are sharing their honest, real life experiences of moving day and those crucial first 24 hours in a new home. They discuss why you should pack a "move in bag" like you're going on holiday, the importance of cleaning empty rooms before you fill them, whether you should hire a removal company or go it alone, and why changing the locks and recording meter readings matter more than you think.

Property advice is rarely one size fits all, but that doesn’t stop the same old claims being repeated again and again.

In this episode, Sara and Lexie put some of the most common property beliefs under the spotlight, from asking prices and online valuations to renovation, deposits and the so-called spring market.

Do you really need to renovate before selling? Is the asking price a true reflection of value? Should buyers stretch their budget as far as possible? And are new builds really problem-free?

They also share some of their own experiences, in...

Panelling, colour drenching, fake grass, and words on walls... which home trends have stood the test of time, and which ones have aged like milk?

In this episode, Lexie and Sara discuss which home design trends seemed like a brilliant idea at the time but didn't quite work out in the long run. From the grey everything era to crushed velvet and open shelving, they give their opinion on what's hot, what's not, and what you should think twice about before jumping on the bandwagon.

What's the biggest home trend you've regretted? Or have you...

What's really happening in the property market right now? And what do the experts on the ground actually think?

In this episode, we’re at the Propertymark One Conference in London to speak with estate and letting agents from across the country. We heard real world insights on everything from the Renters' Rights Act to rental demand, seller expectations, and the first time buyer market.

We’re covering all the hot topics and challenges facing the market in 2026- from offers falling through to energy efficiency. If you want to know what's happening with the gap...

Thinking of tackling that home project yourself? Or should you get help from a professional?

In this episode of the Move iQ Podcast, Lexie and Sara discuss the honest truth about DIY, laying out the skills needed to actually pull off home improvements, why people choose to DIY in the first place (spoiler: it's not only about saving money), and when it makes sense to roll up your sleeves versus when you should step back and call in the experts.

Have you tried a DIY project that went brilliantly or hilariously wrong? What's the one...

Feeling overwhelmed by retrofit? You're not alone. But what if confidence, not confusion, was the starting point?

In this final episode of the retrofit series, Phil Spencer and Daniel Kittow from Vibrant Energy Matters bring everything together - showing how homeowners can move from uncertainty to clarity, one step at a time. They discuss the human side of home energy upgrades and how it's not just about the tech or the savings, it's about feeling confident enough to take action. They explore what holds homeowners back, why retrofit feels so overwhelming at first, and how getting the...

Does retrofit actually pay for itself, or is it just another expensive home upgrade? Is it possible to future-proof your home and save money?

In this episode, Phil Spencer is joined once more by Daniel Kittow from Vibrant to tackle the money question: is retrofit worth it financially, and how do you make the numbers work in your favour? They explore the real returns on energy upgrades, why retrofit can outperform traditional investments, and the common financial mistakes homeowners make when planning improvements. Plus, Dan shares why jumping in with the big ticket items first might actually...

Heat pumps, solar panels, and smart tech – are they the future of home energy, or just an expensive headache?

In this episode, Phil Spencer is joined again by David Sanders from Vibrant Energy Matters to discuss what upgrades are available to make your home more energy efficient. They explore whether heat pumps and solar panels are right for every home, how the technology has evolved, and why getting the order right matters just as much as the tech itself.

They discuss how heat pumps actually work, the impact of combining solar panels with battery storage, an...

In this latest episode of our retrofit series, Phil and David from Vibrant Energy Matters look at why millions of UK homes need improving, what “smarter” retrofit guidance could look like for homeowners, and why a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. They discuss the VESA Report that Vibrant provides and how better, whole-home advice can help people move forward with confidence.

What would make you feel confident enough to start - clear costs, trusted guidance, or knowing what comes first? Let us know! Share your retrofit experiences, questions, and home upgrade stories in the comments- your input will h...

Worried about what global uncertainty means for your mortgage? You're not alone.

In this episode, Phil Spencer sits down virtually with Charlotte from Skipton Building Society to talk through what's really driving mortgage rates right now, how global events are affecting the UK housing market, and what it all means for anyone trying to buy or remortgage in 2026. They discuss the impact of oil prices and inflation on interest rates, why mortgage rates are moving more than usual, and what first time buyers need to know about affordability in today's market.

Plus, they offer practical...

Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are everywhere - but do they actually help homeowners make decisions?

Alongside expert insight from David Sanders from Vibrant Energy Matters, Phil Spencer breaks down what EPC ratings are meant to do, why they often fall short, and why so many homeowners find them confusing or frustrating. They explore how EPCs fit into the retrofit conversation, what factors actually affect the rating and why better guidance is needed.

Do you know your home’s EPC rating, and has it ever been useful? We want this series to reflect real homeowners so pl...

Want to lower your energy bills but don't know where to start?

In this first episode of our new retrofit series, Phil Spencer sits down with Daniel from Vibrant Energy Matters to answer the question everyone's asking: what actually is retrofit, and why does it matter to you as a homeowner?

They break down what it really means to make your home energy efficient (spoiler: it's not about ripping your whole house apart), why it's become such a hot topic in 2026, and what's holding so many homeowners back from making improvements. They also look at...

Looking for a new home? Don't let emotion cloud your judgment!

In this episode, Sara and Lexie discuss the most common mistakes home movers make, from falling head over heels at first viewing to overlooking the practical details that really matter. Whether you're a first time buyer or a seasoned mover, this episode is packed with honest insights and real life stories to help you avoid costly errors and make smarter decisions.

They discuss the emotional pull of property viewings, the importance of future proofing your purchase, why you need to view more than one...

Everyone says “just do the kitchen”… but is that really what adds value to your home?

In this episode, we’re cutting through the home renovation myths to look at what actually makes a difference - and what could end up being a waste of money. Lexie and Sara walk you through understanding the difference between adding value to your life vs your sale price, look at where different budgets work hardest, and break down what buyers really care about.

If someone gave you £25k to spend on your house tomorrow, where would you spend it? And w...

Property sales don’t always go exactly to plan; from gazumping and delays due to collapsed property chains, there are a number of common pitfalls that can disrupt a move. In this final episode of our conveyancing series with Napthens Solicitors, we’re answering your questions about the whole legal process, finding out about issues listeners have faced, and sharing practical advice on how buyers and sellers can protect their move to keep things progressing smoothly.

By understanding the warning signs early and knowing how to respond, you can help reduce stress and avoid unnecessary delays during your...

Buying or selling a home can already feel stressful, but a few common problems during the conveyancing process can quickly throw a move off track. Today Phil and Sarah from Napthens Solicitors are discussing how to protect your property purchase, exploring some of the most common pitfalls that buyers and sellers encounter, from gazumping and delays to collapsed property chains.

Understanding these risks can help you stay one step ahead and avoid unnecessary setbacks during your property journey.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or part of a property chain, this episode will help you navigate th...

In the final episode of our mortgage series, Phil discusses with Emma from Skipton Building Society about how to get support with your mortgage. If you’re struggling with mortgage payments or feeling the pressure of rising household costs, this conversation offers practical guidance on what to do next.

If you are worried about your mortgage payments, acting early is crucial. Speaking to your lender, understanding your options and seeking support can make a real difference. Building financial resilience isn’t about having all the answers - it’s about knowing where to turn when you need help.<...

The final stages of buying a home can feel like the most exciting (and sometimes the most nerve-wracking!) part of the entire process. But what actually happens between exchange of contracts and completion day?

In this episode of our conveyancing series with Napthens Solicitors, Phil and Sarah walk through the final steps that take you from legally committing to the purchase all the way to picking up the keys to your new home.

Whether you're buying your first home or your next one, understanding these final stages can help make the last step of your...

Phil sits down with Simon from Skipton Building Society to help you get to grips with understanding your mortgage. From understanding your monthly payments to making sense of your annual statement, this conversation aims to help you feel more confident about what you’re paying and why.

Understanding how your mortgage works can help you make smarter decisions, whether that’s overpaying, reviewing your loan to value, or preparing for your next deal. The more you know about your numbers, the more confident you’ll feel about your next move.

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The Move iQ Podcast hits the road once more and today we are at the Propertymark conference in Exeter. We speak to agents on the ground about what’s Really happening in today’s property market, from shifting rental demand to the biggest mistakes sellers are still making in 2026. Expect honest insights, practical tips, and expert opinions that could change how you approach your next move.

00:00 Introduction
00:43 How competitive is the Rental Market today compared to years ago?
02:15 Common seller mistakes in 2026
03:33 Common misundersatings in renting in 2026
05:12 Whats Selling? Ready to move in or r...

Buying or selling a home involves more than just the purchase price. From legal fees to searches, Land Registry costs and Stamp Duty, understanding the true cost of conveyancing is key to planning your budget and avoiding surprises.

In this episode of our conveyancing series with Napthens Solicitors, we take a closer look at the money side of the moving process.

Whether you're a first-time buyer or preparing to sell your home, this episode will help you understand where your money goes and how to stay in control of your moving budget.

To...

Phil is joined by Emma from Skipton Building Society to explain product transfers and what to do when your fixed rate mortgage deal ends. If you’re unsure whether to switch lenders or stay put, this conversation focuses on the option of moving onto a new deal with your existing lender.

When your deal comes to an end, you don’t have to accept your lender’s reversionary rate. A product transfer allows you to switch to a new deal with the same lender, often with a simpler process. Understanding your options early can help you avoid higher...

Buying a home involves far more than just agreeing a price. Behind the scenes, your solicitor carries out a series of legal checks and property searches designed to protect both you and your purchase.

In this episode of our conveyancing series with Napthens Solicitors, we break down what these checks actually involve and why they’re a crucial part of the home-buying process.

Whether you’re a first-time buyer or planning your next move, understanding these steps can give you confidence before committing to a property.

Keep an eye out for more episodes in t...

What exactly does a buying agent or property finder do? In this episode, Phil Spencer hosts a panel discusssion with David, Jennifer and Danny, from Garrington Property Finders to explore the role of buying agents/property finders in the UK and how they support people through the property buying process.

They discuss how buying agents help buyers identify the right properties, access opportunities that may never reach the open market, and provide guidance and negotiation expertise during what can often be a complex and competitive process. If you’re planning to buy a home and have wondered wh...

This episode is a guide to porting your mortgage. Phil is joined by Simon from @SkiptonBuildingSociety to unpack the ins and outs of the process, so if you’re planning a move but keen to keep your current mortgage deal, this conversation explains what porting actually means and how it works in practice.

Porting a mortgage allows you to transfer your existing deal to a new property, but it’s not automatic and approval is still required. Planning ahead and understanding your lender’s requirements can make the process far less stressful.

From understanding lender criter...

Today we’re discussing how to keep your property sale moving smoothly- and what the legal timeline actually entails. From offer accepted to completion can often take months, and Phil and Sarah from Napthens Solicitors are here to explain what’s actually going on during that time.

If you’re buying or selling soon, follow along this series as we guide you through the conveyancing process. We have podcast episodes on all-things property every week- subscribe so you don’t miss out!

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