Estate Agents are starting 2026 on a much stronger footing. They are reporting an increase in the number of viewing requests and buyer enquiries. According to the latest research from Property DriveBuy, one in five is also seeing more offers being made.
Activity levels are higher
42% of the Agents questioned describe activity as in line with typical seasonal levels. 38% say that activity levels are higher than what they would usually expect at this time of year.
Conveyancing registrations, a key indicator of serious intent to move, rose by nearly three quarters (74%) year-on-year during the first fortnight of January. This suggests that sellers who were paused or delayed at the end of last year, predominantly due to the late Autumn budget, are now proactively progressing with their plans.
First-time buyers
First-time buyers are being particularly proactive in their search. They are accounting for 59% of all conveyancing registrations on really moving in early January. The desire to secure reduced prices from sellers who have been on the market for a while and the availability of cheaper mortgage deals have spurred First-time buyers into action.
Up-sizers accounted for 18% of movers. Down-sizers are taking a little longer to come to market in the hope that the market will strengthen soon, meaning that they can maximise the value of their home. This is understandable as many downsizers hope that a strengthening market will provide a larger lump sum, likely to help fund retirement. The timing is key.
Rightmove add to the positive news
Rightmove also added to the positive news, claiming that the average asking price of houses coming to market has increased in January to 2.8%. This marks the largest price rise ever recorded in January and the biggest monthly jump since June 2015.
National average asking prices are now 0.5% higher than a year ago as values rebound following the Budget. However, the choice for buyers is at its highest for this time of year since 2014. New sellers should be cautious about setting prices too optimistically. Around a third of existing homes for sale have already reduced their asking price. It is important if you are considering selling your home, you choose an agent who has local knowledge and experience.
A record January
This record January arrives as home-movers return to the market. Encouraged by the start of the traditional Spring selling season, there is renewed confidence at the beginning of 2026. David Phillip commented:
“Buyers and sellers breathed a collective sigh of relief after the Budget when it was not as bad as expected. The recent reductions from some mortgage lenders and lower inflation at the end of last year also boosted confidence. Sellers should be careful not to get too carried away. Purchasers still have worries about the economy, household bills and employment prospects”.
If you are considering selling your home and would like a free market appraisal with David
Phillip FRICS call 0113 4676400.
David Phillip Estate Agents, selling homes in Leeds, Bramhope, Adel, Cookridge and Pool- in-Wharfedale and in 2026 sold over 40% of the properties sold in Bramhope*
*according to Rightmove Plus, January 1st to December 22nd 2025 in LS16 9
