Latest supply and demand data reveals that property transaction numbers have been extremely buoyant this year, but will this last, asks Kate Faulkner.
11th Apr 20260 2,504 2 minutes read Kate Faulkner OBE
Although there isn’t anything too exciting about property prices at the moment, transactions so far this year have been extremely buoyant, partly due to the slowdown prior to the budget at the end of 2025.
Currently, thanks to data from Chris Watkin and TwentyEA data, we are seeing the highest level of properties available for sale than we’ve seen since 2017 and not just a bit higher, but an extra 44,000+ properties are on the market.
This is also perhaps a surprise small increase on the number of properties for sale versus Q1 2025 considering the market was boosted by the Stamp Duty Land Tax holiday.
Accumulative listings YTD week 11
Where we do see this impacting is that gross sales which are down by 6% year on year, although still one of the highest sales achieved for the first quarter of a year.
Accumulative gross sales YTD week 11
Data from HMRC shows that overall, so far this year, transactions are holding up pretty well going as far back as the credit crunch.
Overall, despite the higher level of interest and mortgage rates, there are enough people buying and selling so far this year to suggest that the forecasts for the long term average of 1.2mn transactions per annum are likely to be achieved – pending any other shocks!
Zoopla
“2026 has started with a strong rebound in housing market activity, accelerating transaction numbers. This is driven by the lowest mortgage rates in 4 years and improved access to financing, bringing first-time buyers in particular back to branch windows.
“The number of agreed sales has increased sharply across the industry, but remains 3% below the very strong start to 2025. Sales are currently running at the fourth strongest February level in the past decade.
“Notably, there are 8% fewer buyers in the market than a year ago, meaning agents must focus heavily on qualifying highly motivated applicants over chasing volume.”
Propertymark (data from the January 2026 report)
Phil Spencer Founder of Move iQ, said: “The positive takeaway is that the market is functioning and transactions are continuing to happen. For buyers and renters alike, preparation is key, whether that means getting finances in order before house hunting or acting quickly when the right property becomes available. As the year progresses, many will be hoping that improvements in the wider economy start to ease the pressure on household budgets and make moving a little easier.”
New supply showed positivity across January 2026.
Stock levels reflect the average number of properties available for sale at each member branch. In January 2026, stock levels were stable with an overall average of 39 properties for sale at each member branch.
Tagshouse prices 11th Apr 20260 2,504 2 minutes read Kate Faulkner OBE Share Facebook X LinkedIn Share via Email