Official figures confirm Yate’s renters face ‘unaffordable’ costs. Statistics released this week from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) show that renters in South Gloucestershire are facing ongoing rises to their rent, making them some of the highest proportionally in the region.
Average private rental prices in South Gloucestershire now officially represent 31.3% of a household’s income, rising above what the ONS classes as affordable (30%). With a trend of rising prices, local housebuilder Newland Homes is urging people to consider if buying a newbuild home could in fact save them money.
Homebuyers have options to get on the first step of the housing ladder
With mortgage lenders beginning to look more optimistic for the future in terms of parameters of lending, potential homebuyers have options for getting on the first step of the housing ladder.
Alison Bowen, Sales Manager for Newland Homes, the company behind Engine Common’s development of zero carbon homes Great Oaks, explained: “With rental prices in South Gloucestershire now officially unaffordable, home ownership could be a way for people in the area to have more money in their pocket and security for their future.
“Getting on the housing ladder can be seen as an insurmountable challenge, but in fact mortgage lenders are increasingly introducing ways to make this easier. We’re seeing lenders now look at rental payments as a factor in deciding if someone can afford a mortgage. So, if you’re able to afford an ‘unaffordable’ rental cost, homebuyers might be surprised by what they could achieve by buying.
“Plus, savvy buyers can boost what they get for their money by choosing specific features. Zero carbon technology, such as solar panels and air source heat pumps, can mean that running costs are lower. Also, specific home designs, like three storey homes, could also mean that you’re paying a lower price per square foot, and so getting more home for your money too.”
Zero carbon homes at Great Oaks, Engine Common
Great Oaks, Engine Common, is a collection of three and four bedroom zero carbon homes. Homes currently start at £390,000, with three storey, three bedroom Tetbury style homes available from £415,000. Tailor-made appointments are available daily, please call 01454 537993 to book. For further information and to view homes online please click here or follow Newland Homes on socials @newlandhomes
Figures taken from the ONS Private rental affordability, England, Wales and Northern Ireland: 2024, published 18 August 2025
Newland Homes Limited is a property developer registered in England and Wales number 2582221.
Registered office: Brighouse Court, Barnett Way, Barnwood, Gloucester, GL4 3RT.
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