Market Reports

Where are we moving to, how much is it costing us and what’s the market like? We take a look at the key property reports and research released in May to provide you with a sales and lettings overview. Let’s start with house prices.

While spring is usually one of the property market’s busiest seasons, 2025 looks set to be a little different. As well as being brisk for both sales and lettings, this April was an important time for setting the scene ahead of summer. Future property prospects look fascinating.

Brighter days and warmer temperatures are often the catalyst for increased property activity and last month was no different. Rightmove’s March House Price Index saw all its vital metrics increase. The figures provide a positive market overview. 

Just like that, February was over. While it can feel like a quiet month squashed between the New Year rush and the spring peak, February 2025 had a micro-climate all of its own. As well as home movers pushing to complete before the stamp duty deadline on 31st March, we were noting the buyers of the future.

The new year got off to a busy start across all our departments. We eagerly awaited the first property reports of 2025 to assess the health of the wider market. The verdict? There are many positives to take away, starting with a sales market bubbling with interest.

December marked the end of an interesting period for the property market. The 12 months were underpinned by a change to the English Government, inflation closer to 2% and a decreasing base rate. The year was, however, tempered by what might lie ahead in 2025.

With the end of the year almost in sight, people would be forgiven for focusing on Christmas. This November, however, felt very different. A 0.25% cut to the Bank of England base rate at the start of the month set a positive tone.

What are your take-aways from the Autumn Budget? The fuel duty freeze or cheaper draught beer from the pub? Mentioned in the address were a few property-related items. If you own a home, the announcement concerning inheritance tax should be of interest.

As the season’s change, so do attitudes to moving home. We noted a positive shift in September, with more movers getting in touch. We’re happy to say the industry’s leading metrics also reflected this air of optimism.

August is traditionally the month for holidays but the property market didn’t take a break. Action from the Bank of England (BoE) and changing mortgage rates both had an impact on moving activity. In fact, high summer was a period of high interest among home movers.

Every summer brings a unique set of property conditions and July 2024 has been no different. While sporting tournaments, school holidays and the small matter of a General Election were predicted to sway home movers, what do the official statistics reveal?

The election is over and a new Government has formed. As we enter into a period of adjustment and anticipation, it’s good to identify who the new movers and shakers are when it comes to the property market.