The UK Property Market: Is Now a Good Time to Sell?

The UK property market continues to move, but success in today’s market depends increasingly on realistic pricing, strong presentation and an effective sales strategy.

Recent figures paint a mixed but far from inactive picture. Buyers have more properties to choose from, affordability remains a challenge, and homes that enter the market at an overly ambitious price can struggle to attract offers. Nevertheless, correctly priced properties are still selling, and committed buyers remain active.

What is happening to house prices?

The latest data shows that house price performance varies considerably by location and property type.

According to Zoopla’s July 2026 House Price Index, UK property prices have risen by approximately 1.3% during 2026. However, regional differences remain significant. The North West has recorded some of the strongest growth, while London has experienced modest price falls.

Meanwhile, Rightmove reported that the average asking price of a newly listed property fell by 2% in August. Seasonal reductions are common during the summer, but the size of this adjustment also reflects greater competition between sellers.

It is important to remember that asking price indices track the prices sellers advertise, rather than the final prices achieved. The figures therefore suggest that sellers are becoming more realistic, not that every property has suddenly lost the same percentage of its value.

Buyers have more choice

One of the biggest changes in the current market is the amount of property available.

With more homes competing for buyers’ attention, purchasers can afford to be selective. They are comparing price, location, condition and running costs carefully before deciding which properties to view.

Zoopla reports that around 30% of homes listed since the second quarter of 2026 remain unsold without a price reduction. This demonstrates how important the initial asking price has become. Launching too high can reduce interest during the crucial first few weeks and may eventually lead to a longer sale and a larger reduction.

For sellers, the objective should not be to choose the highest suggested valuation. It should be to establish the price most likely to create competition and achieve the best possible result.

Are properties still selling?

Yes. The market may be more price sensitive, but transactions are continuing.

HMRC recorded an estimated 98,700 seasonally adjusted UK residential transactions in June 2026. This was 2% higher than in June 2025 and marginally higher than the previous month.

At the same time, Zoopla reported that the number of sales agreed was 9% lower than a year earlier. Mortgage approvals were also below last year’s level, suggesting that some buyers are taking longer to make decisions.

Together, these figures point to a market that is active but measured. Buyers have not disappeared. They simply have more choice and are less likely to overlook an unrealistic price or poorly presented home.

What do interest rates mean for the market?

The Bank of England’s Bank Rate currently stands at 3.75%. Although this is below the peak seen during the recent period of higher borrowing costs, mortgage affordability remains a central concern for buyers.

Most purchasers now begin their search with a firm monthly budget. Even a relatively small difference in price can affect how much they can borrow and whether a property feels affordable.

Sellers should therefore expect buyers to negotiate, particularly when a home needs improvement or has been available for some time. Being prepared for negotiation does not mean accepting an unnecessarily low offer. A good estate agent will assess the buyer’s position, chain, finances and timescale, not just the headline figure.

What does the current market mean for sellers?

There are still good opportunities for homeowners who approach the market strategically.

The most successful sellers are likely to:

Obtain a valuation supported by recent comparable sales.

Set a competitive asking price from the beginning.

Present the property carefully before photography and viewings.

Use professional photographs, an accurate floor plan and compelling marketing.

Make viewings as accessible as possible.

Review feedback and market response regularly.

Consider the buyer’s complete position when assessing an offer.

The first few weeks after launch are particularly valuable. This is when a property is new to the portals and most likely to attract the attention of waiting buyers. A strong launch can generate viewings and competition, while an inflated asking price may cause the home to be overlooked.

Is now a good time to sell?

For many homeowners, the answer is yes, but expectations need to reflect local conditions.

There is no single UK property market. Demand can differ considerably between neighbouring towns, price ranges and property types. A well presented family house in a popular school catchment may receive strong interest, while a flat or heavily renovated property in the same area may take longer to sell.

Your decision should also take account of why you are moving. If you are selling and buying in the same market, a softer selling price may be balanced by greater negotiating power on your next home.

Waiting for the “perfect” market can also mean postponing important personal plans. The better question is whether selling now works for your circumstances and how your property can be positioned to achieve the strongest available result.

Looking ahead

The outlook for the remainder of 2026 is one of cautious activity rather than rapid price growth. Greater buyer choice is likely to keep prices competitive, while mortgage costs and economic confidence will continue to influence demand.

There may also be an increase in activity after the summer, provided mortgage rates remain stable. Sellers who prepare early, price accurately and work with an agent who understands their local market will be best placed to benefit.

Thinking of selling?

If you are considering a move, start with an honest, evidence based valuation. We can explain what comparable properties have achieved, how quickly homes are selling locally and the marketing strategy most likely to produce the right result.

Contact our team today to arrange a free, no obligation property valuation and discover what your home could achieve in the current market.

Market information correct as of 17 August 2026. Sources: Zoopla House Price Index, HMRC property transaction statistics, Bank of England and Rightmove House Price Index.