Housing Policy (UK): MPs want new powers to seize long-term empty homes in London and hand them to councils for social housing, arguing existing tools like EDMOs and CPOs are too hard to use. Tax & Affordability (UK): A cross-party MP committee urges Rachel Reeves to reform or scrap stamp duty, saying it’s slowing the market and blocking first-time buyers. Mortgage Pressure (UK): Housebuilder Bellway warns higher mortgage rates tied to the Iran war are cooling demand, with reservations down year-on-year. First-Time Buyer Reality Check (US): A homebuying quiz finds many would-be buyers feel ready but score poorly on basics like mortgage timing and closing costs. Market Outlook (Global): Experts say house-price growth may lag inflation or even soften as borrowing costs bite. Retirement & Lifestyle (Spain/UK): Spain’s cheapest retirement hotspots are being marketed for sun-and-savings living, while UK coverage highlights home design trends and local antiques towns. Property & Costs (India): A reminder that “profit” on apartment sales can shrink fast once GST, stamp duty, registration, brokerage, maintenance, and taxes are counted. Local Housing Stress (South Africa): A Pretoria student describes repeated moves after crime and rising costs, underscoring affordability and safety strain.