Property Review - April 2026
Thank you Howard Davis for writing this article. Howard is Managing Directory of Howard Independent East Agents.
Home Truths
With the UK property market adjusting to slightly higher borrowing costs, patchy growth and a more cautious buyer base, Howard offers a clear-eyed view of conditions in 2026 - and some practical advice for sellers.
Not so long ago the media thrived on making bold predictions about the property market. Now it seems to have lost its voice. Today’s market is more nuanced: mortgage rates have crept up, affordability is stretched, and buyers are taking their time and being ultra-cautious. The lesson is simple - the market has shifted, and expectations must shift with it.
The property market has always been cyclical. What we are seeing now is not unusual over the long term, but it does require an up-to-date mindset. Sellers no longer dictate terms, negotiation, presentation and pricing matter more than ever.
So where should sellers turn to for guidance? Certainly not media headlines which always tend to lag behind events, nor national averages that mask local variation, and definitely not local gossip. Instead, rely on an experienced local professional estate agent. With this in mind here are some key points to consider:
Think local, not national.
Market conditions vary, not only area by area but often street by street.
Price with precision.
Overpricing is the quickest way to stall a sale. Today’s buyers are well-informed and cautious. A realistic asking price generates interest; an ambitious one often leads to wasted time and opportunities – and reductions later.
Presentation is critical.
First impressions count more than ever. With more choice available buyers will gravitate towards homes that are well-maintained and ready to move into, as the increased costs of renovation and materials and shortages of good builders have become serious considerations.
Be flexible.
Transaction timescales are longer, chains more fragile, and negotiations more detailed. A degree of pragmatism can make the difference between a sale and a missed opportunity.
Choose experience.
An experienced estate agent will guide pricing, manage expectations, and negotiate effectively. Remember, selling and/or buying is just part of the process to reach the ultimate goal, which is to move.
Preparation pays.
Good photography, targeted marketing, clear documentation and readiness for survey and legal stages will help attract buyers and keep momentum once one is found. Serious buyers are still active – we know who they are - but they are selective.
Success in the 2026 property market depends now more than ever on realism, preparation, and the right advice from an experienced estate agent at the outset.
