Latest news with #BelfastTelegraphPropertyAwards
Belfast Telegraph
4 days ago
- Business
- Belfast Telegraph
Why Progressive is backing new housing in Northern Ireland
Residential Development of the Year Progressive Building Society is throwing its support behind Northern Ireland's booming housing sector by sponsoring the Residential Development of the Year category at the 2025 Belfast Telegraph Property Awards. As Northern Ireland's largest locally-owned building society, Progressive believes the need for new homes is more urgent than ever. Chief executive Michael Boyd said: 'Demand is still outpacing supply and that puts real pressure on people trying to buy a home.' That supply-and-demand imbalance is reflected in the latest Quarterly House Price Index, compiled by Ulster University in partnership with Progressive and the Northern Ireland Executive. In quarter two of 2025, house prices rose 1.4% compared to the previous quarter. Prices are now 2.7% higher than they were compared to the same period last year — driven by improved lending conditions and a lift in buyer activity. Despite the challenges, Michael says Progressive remains focused on helping people across the region get on the property ladder, just as it has done for over 100 years. 'Helping local people own homes is central to who we are,' he said. 'With 11 branches and 180 staff, we're part of the communities we serve.' He added: 'Our strength lies in our understanding of the local market. We connect savers and borrowers within Northern Ireland, helping to fund homes for people who live and work here.' Progressive offers a wide range of mortgage options, from first-time buyers and home movers to re-mortgaging and self-builds. It also provides renovation re-mortgages and specialist products like their affordability booster mortgage, which will take your family members' income into account when working out how much you will be able to borrow. Looking ahead, the society is focused on building closer ties with new and existing mortgage brokers to expand its reach and deliver even better service to members. Michael said the Property Awards are a chance to shine a light on those helping to shape the future of housing across Northern Ireland. 'This is the property industry's biggest event of the year,' he said. 'We're delighted to be part of it - and to be sponsoring a category that celebrates the work of those meeting one of our region's most critical needs.' With new homes still in short supply and demand showing no signs of slowing, the spotlight on homebuilding has never been more important. Progressive's sponsorship reflects not just its long-standing role in Northern Ireland's housing market; it cements its ongoing commitment to helping more people find a special place to call home.
Belfast Telegraph
05-08-2025
- Business
- Belfast Telegraph
Radius Housing proud to support Belfast Telegraph Property Awards
The awards are a celebration of the collective effort that goes into delivering high-quality homes and properties — from architects and planners to construction teams, housing associations, and the vital legal professionals who help ensure every project reaches completion successfully. Anita Conway, director of development at Radius Housing, emphasised the importance of collaboration and evolving standards in the housing sector: 'We've seen a real transformation in how homes are being delivered. There's a new level of commitment to design, sustainability, and creating communities. 'At Radius, we are proud to be part of this shift — building not just houses, but forever homes that support long-term wellbeing, energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.' The housing landscape has undergone significant change in recent years. Increasingly, projects are shaped by collaborative working practices, with communities, developers, planners, financiers and legal professionals working side-by-side. That collaboration is vital in ensuring that homes meet not just today's needs, but the challenges of the future — particularly in delivering lower emissions, smart design, and improved living standards. Anita said: 'For social housing developers like Radius, it's especially important to get things right from the outset. From land acquisition and legal compliance to value engineering, everything must align. 'The legal professionals who support these transactions are instrumental in helping us navigate complex regulatory environments and unlock challenging sites. Their work underpins the success of every project.' Radius Housing has first-hand experience of delivering ambitious, community-focused developments on complex sites. From the regeneration of the Gasworks in Belfast to the award-winning Creevagh Heights in Derry/Londonderry, Radius developments are designed with sustainability, community integration, and long-term value in mind. These projects demonstrate how innovation in design and delivery can transform brownfield and urban spaces into thriving neighbourhoods. Watch: Planes struggle to land at Belfast City Airport as Storm Floris hits NI The Belfast Telegraph Property Awards also shine a spotlight on those working behind the scenes. From residential to commercial, office space to community hubs, every successful development is the result of a joined-up effort. The recognition of legal professionals as part of the awards reflects their essential role in this process — ensuring projects move forward smoothly, securely, and efficiently. Anita said: 'At a time when the sector faces unprecedented challenges — from inflation and materials costs to shifting regulations — events like the Belfast Telegraph Property Awards are more important than ever. They not only honour achievement, but they also help set the standard for what comes next.' With the property and housing sectors continuing to evolve, Radius Housing remains committed to innovation, collaboration, and community. As the industry drives forward into a more sustainable, inclusive future, the awards serve as both a celebration and a reminder of the hard work, professionalism, and passion that make it all possible.
Belfast Telegraph
29-07-2025
- Business
- Belfast Telegraph
Property Deal of the Year champion Wilson Nesbitt returns for ninth year
With Belfast City Council continuing to make strides towards the milestones set out in the Belfast Agenda — which includes growing the city's population, increasing the number of jobs, and enhancing environmental sustainability — optimism remains strong around the city's long-term vision to become a 'city reimagined' by 2035. The Belfast Telegraph Property Awards offer a timely opportunity to reflect on that progress and recognise the achievements of property professionals and businesses that have contributed to the development of the real estate landscape across NI over the last year. Drew Nesbitt, commercial real estate partner at Wilson Nesbitt, says: 'On the surface, Northern Ireland is thriving, and there is plenty to be positive about in the real estate sector. 'We've seen many exciting transactions within the last 24 months, including the purchase of Abbey Centre, Bloomfield and Forestside by a local investor — a clear sign that people see long-term value in the country's commercial property — as well as the opening of the transport hub at Weavers Cross. 'We've also seen encouraging investment in social housing, with providers such as Radius Housing committing to create hundreds of new homes across the country within the next three years. 'We were pleased to recently act on behalf of Radius Housing in the facilitation of a £75m sustainability linked loan agreement with Danske Bank.' While it is an exciting time for the NI real estate sector, there are a number of issues which pose a challenge to continued development, Drew says. 'The major issue that is halting future development in NI is water. Lack of capacity in the sewage system means that securing a foul connection for new developments is difficult. Although there are consultations underway, until there is proper investment the pipeline for new residential and commercial space will continue to slow.' Despite such challenges, Drew has strong hope for the NI property market. 'There is a lot of be excited about in our real estate sector. 'We are continuing to see high-value developments and transactions take place, with luxury hotel development on the rise in Belfast and along the north coast, driven by increasing tourism and international sporting events like The Open. 'The strength of the market lies in its tight-knit development community. 'Because it's a smaller jurisdiction, stakeholders tend to work collaboratively to make things happen when opportunities arise and it is this collaborative attitude that will help us to overcome the challenges and inspire innovation and progress within NI real estate going forward.' Drew adds: 'Good luck to all those entering the Belfast Telegraph Property Awards. We look forward to celebrating the successes of the many leaders that are shaping the future of real estate in Northern Ireland.'
Belfast Telegraph
29-07-2025
- Business
- Belfast Telegraph
Firm at forefront of residential property risk and surveying services
Young Property Professional of the Year For over 35 years, has stood at the forefront of residential property risk and surveying services across the UK. Since its founding in 1989, the company has grown into a trusted partner for homebuyers, homeowners, and mortgage lenders, delivering expert insight and dependable service at every stage of the property journey. As a proud sponsor of Young Property Professional of the Year at the Belfast Telegraph Property Awards, continues to demonstrate its commitment to nurturing the next generation of property professionals. This sponsorship reflects the company's belief in recognising emerging talent and supporting the future leaders of the industry. reach is both broad and deep. With 100% coverage across Northern Ireland and 95% across all other UK postcodes — the company offers a truly nationwide service. Its team includes over 600 RICS-registered surveyors, and it has helped launch the careers of more than 400 graduates. With a valuation completed every 25 seconds, scale is matched only by its dedication to quality. Innovation is central to approach, they remain at the forefront of consistently developing new and exciting products for the industry. The company's flagship HomePlus Digital Home Survey is a prime example — offering a RICS Level 2 equivalent service in a fully digital format. Designed with the customer in mind, the report provides clear, accessible guidance on property condition, repairs, and maintenance, helping clients make informed decisions with confidence. Beyond surveys, also delivers independent property valuations for a wide range of purposes. These valuations are carried out by experienced professionals who understand the importance of accuracy and timeliness in financial decision-making. At the heart of success is a deep-rooted commitment to customer satisfaction. Every service is treated as a personal promise — delivered with care, professionalism, and attention to detail. The company's surveyors are not only highly qualified but also passionate about delivering a positive experience for every client. This customer-first ethos extends to relationships with partners and stakeholders. By fostering long-term collaborations built on trust and shared values, the company ensures its services remain relevant, responsive, and forward-thinking. Its investment in talent and technology ensures that clients benefit from efficient, cost-effective solutions that meet the evolving demands of the market. The Young Property Professional of the Year award celebrates individuals aged 35 and under who demonstrate exceptional contribution, leadership potential, and a commitment to sustainability. sponsorship of this award aligns with its own 12 Green Commitments, which guide the company's efforts to reduce emissions, promote sustainable practices, and support the journey to net zero. As the property landscape continues to evolve, remains steadfast in its mission: to lead with integrity, innovate with purpose, and support the professionals shaping the future of the industry. With a proven track record, a comprehensive service offering, and a clear vision for what lies ahead, is proud to be the trusted partner for all property needs—today and tomorrow.
Belfast Telegraph
24-06-2025
- Business
- Belfast Telegraph
Nominations open for the Belfast Telegraph Property Awards
Nominations have opened for this year's Belfast Telegraph Property Awards, with 17 categories open for consideration by the judging panel. Those wishing to enter the awards, which are held in partnership with Openreach have until 5pm on Friday 12th September to apply online. The categories are: Lauren McGaughey, acting director, Openreach Northern Ireland said 'I'm delighted that Openreach Northern Ireland are partnering with the Belfast Telegraph for the third consecutive year to sponsor the Belfast Telegraph Property Awards. 'These awards are a standout event in the Northern Ireland calendar and a chance to celebrate the very best companies working within the property industry here. 'At Openreach, we build and maintain the largest broadband network in Northern Ireland and are proud of the huge part we play in making Northern Ireland the most digitally connected region in the UK. 'I'm especially delighted that the award categories showcase companies, like ourselves, who strive to deliver for their customers in an inclusive and sustainable way.' Spirit of Northern Ireland Awards 2025: A look behind the scenes Eoin Brannigan, editor-in-chief of the Belfast Telegraph and Sunday Life, said: 'We are delighted to launch the 2025 Belfast Telegraph Property Awards, which for the third year in a row will be sponsored by Openreach. 'I'd like to thank Openreach for their continued support, and in particular wish Lauren McGaughey well while she steps in at the helm for Garret Kavanagh. "These awards touch on many key aspects of life in Northern Ireland, from housing to construction to infrastructure, so are a natural fit for the Belfast Telegraph.' "Thanks to all our category sponsors and best of luck to our expert judging panel for the intense debates to come." Sharon McClements, chair of the judging panel, said: 'I am really excited to be chairing the judging panel again this year and to work with the wider panel of esteemed judges who bring a wealth of expertise, knowledge, and insight to these awards. 'The property industry in NI is vast, and year on year we continue to see entries from truly brilliant firms, teams and individuals who are shaping our built environment. 'These awards make me very proud of our local property sector, and I look forward to celebrating the passion and dedication that drives Northern Ireland's property sector forward.'
