๐Ÿ’› ๐Ÿก Moving in 2026, what the 2025 figures are telling us ๐Ÿก ๐Ÿ’›

โฑ๏ธ 4-minute read

Anyone thinking about a move this year will recognise that the market feels calmer than it once did. The 2025 figures support that view. Activity stayed steady rather than rushed, choice remained good across many price ranges, and buyers were more selective about what they committed to.

That change does not signal a weak market. It points to a more balanced one โš–๏ธ, where outcomes are driven by pricing accuracy, preparation and realism rather than momentum.

Throughout 2025, sales were strongest in the mid-market ๐Ÿ’ท. Homes priced between ยฃ150,000 and ยฃ300,000 accounted for the highest proportion of completed deals in every quarter. Above this level, sales thinned while available stock increased, particularly as the year progressed.

This imbalance between supply and demand shaped much of the year ๐Ÿ“Š. Where listings rose faster than sales, properties tended to sit longer and were more likely to be reduced later on. Where demand remained ahead of supply, homes continued to sell even when buyer confidence softened.

Seasonal patterns still played a role ๐Ÿ—“๏ธ, but less dramatically than in previous years. Spring and early autumn saw stronger absorption of new listings, with sales increasing without a sharp rise in available stock. These periods rewarded sellers who launched well-prepared homes, rather than those rushing to market late.

Pricing stands out as the clearest dividing line ๐Ÿ“. Homes that launched above the level buyers were prepared to pay often struggled to regain momentum once interest dropped away. Reductions became more common as the year went on, particularly in higher price brackets. By contrast, homes priced in line with comparable sold evidence were far more likely to agree a sale cleanly.

Presentation continued to influence results ๐Ÿงน. With buyers able to compare more options, condition and layout clarity mattered. Clean, neutral spaces and well-defined rooms helped homes stand out. Where presentation lagged, price usually had to compensate.

For anyone planning a move in 2026, the message from 2025 is practical ๐Ÿงญ. This is a market that works when expectations are realistic and decisions are made early. The best time to sell is less about waiting for conditions to change and more about being ready to meet the market as it stands.

Our focus remains on accurate valuations based on sold evidence ๐Ÿ“, not optimistic asking prices. That approach helped sellers throughout last year and remains the most reliable route to a smooth sale.

What this means if a move is on the cards this year

Homes up to ยฃ200,000
This remains the most active part of the market ๐Ÿšฆ. Demand is consistent and stock recycles well. Buyers act quickly when value feels right. Pricing still needs discipline, but presentation is more about cleanliness, light and usability than costly upgrades.

Homes from ยฃ200,000 to ยฃ300,000
This is where the market has been at its strongest ๐Ÿ“ˆ. Sales volumes held up well and buyers remained active even as choice increased. Accurate pricing is critical, as comparisons are easy to make. Well-prepared homes generally saw the best response.

Homes from ยฃ300,000 to ยฃ400,000
Sales are achievable, but selectivity increases ๐Ÿ”. Condition, layout and location carry more weight and pricing tolerance narrows. Homes that felt ready from day one performed better than those needing work. Starting at the right level helps avoid later reductions.

Homes above ยฃ400,000
This part of the market slowed most noticeably ๐Ÿ•ฐ๏ธ. Stock built up while sales thinned. Buyers take longer and expect clarity on value. Pricing needs to be evidence-led, and longer marketing periods should be expected from the outset.

The overall message from the figures is clear ๐Ÿ“. The market is active, but structured. Homes that align with demand, are priced realistically and are properly prepared continue to sell. Getting those basics right now matters more than waiting for the perfect moment.

โ˜Ž๏ธ If a move is being considered this year, a clear starting point is an accurate valuation based on current, local evidence. We offer free, no-obligation valuations, grounded in what homes are actually selling for rather than hopeful asking prices. A short conversation now can help set realistic expectations and avoid issues later in the process.

Thanks for reading

Michael

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