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Is now a good time to sell your home?
The typical asking price rises by nearly £10,000 in January
Selling your home is a huge decision and finding the perfect time is nearly impossible.
However, understanding current market conditions can help you set realistic expectations.
To help with this, we've consulted property portals and estate agents on the current buyer demand and supply of homes on the market.
Read on to find tips for sellers tackling a buyer's market.
What's happening to buyer demand?
Before Christmas buyer demand was muted, as people waited for the outcome of the Autumn Budget. Demand has slightly ticked up since then, with Rightmove registering a record number of visits to the site on Boxing Day.
Insight from Reallymoving, a comparison site for home movers, also indicates an increase in buyer demand. Registrations for conveyancing, survey and removals quotes on the site were up 58% in the first fortnight of the year, compared with the same period in 2025.
In addition, conveyancing registrations rose by nearly three quarters year-on-year during the first fortnight. As a key indicator of serious intent to move, this surge suggests that sellers are now progressing plans that were paused or delayed towards the end of last year.
This data shows there is some good news for sellers, which is needed after a disappointing end to 2025. However, housing supply continues to outstrip buyer demand.
In fact, Rightmove found that the number of available homes on the market, along with the number of other sellers to compete with, is at its highest level for this time of year since 2014.
In this market, Rightmove has emphasised the importance of pricing; properties that receive an enquiry on day one of marketing are 22% more likely to secure a buyer than those that take over two weeks to get their first enquiry.
- Find out more: what's happening to house prices?
What do experts say about selling in 2026?
We asked two estate agents for their advice to sellers finding themselves in a competitive market.
Julia Meadowcroft, Partner, Knight Frank said:
'The competition of available properties is vast but a lot of the houses come with optimistic price tags, so if you are priced sensibly you will get interest.'
'In a buyer's market it is more important than ever to take your agents advice, please don't forget they have likely worked in tricky markets before. You have employed them as your professionals for a reason.'
Justin Holder Hamptons head of Sales Chiswick said:
'The key lies in recognising that presentation, pricing, and promotion are more critical than ever.'
'Promotion, both online and offline, must be comprehensive and creative. In today’s digital-first environment, buyers typically make their shortlist online before ever stepping through the door. High-resolution photography, engaging video tours, drone footage, floor plans, and premium listings across major portals like Rightmove and Zoopla are essential.
'Finally, flexibility and responsiveness during the sales process are key signals to buyers that a seller is committed and not simply testing the market. Being accommodating with viewing times, proactive in communication and open-minded during negotiations demonstrates seriousness and goodwill.'
- Find out more: what's happening to house prices
How to sell your house more quickly
There isn't an easy way to ensure a quick sale, but we've highlighted three extra tips to improve your chances.
1. Pick the right estate agent
Search for an estate agent with experience of selling in your area and a reputation for great communication to streamline the process. It's best practice to get at least three quotes, and be wary of anyone suggesting an overly ambitious price, especially in the current market.
Holder advises sellers focus on evidence-based pricing.
‘Collaborate with an experienced agent who can provide evidence-based pricing advice, supported by recent comparable sales and an in-depth understanding of buyer behaviour in your area.
'Be wary of agents who offer inflated valuations to win instructions; if they can’t convincingly justify the price to you, they’ll struggle to convince prospective buyers. The first few weeks on the market are crucial; launching too high and reducing later typically results in a lower final sale price.'
- Find out more: how to find the best estate agent
2. Make your home stand out
A simple but effective change is to ensure your home is clutter-free and clean for viewings and photos. A tidy space helps potential buyers envision how they would live in the property, increasing its appeal.
Holder added: 'Presentation sets the tone. Properties that make a strong first impression through professional photography, thoughtful staging and immaculate presentation consistently attract more viewings and achieve stronger offers.'
For example, you could include high-resolution photography, video tours, drone footage and floor plans.
- Find out more: how to sell your home
3. Consider chain-free buyers
If you can find a chain-free buyer, such as a first-time buyer or property investor, it can make the process faster, as you won't need to wait for them to agree to the sale of their property.
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What's happening to mortgage rates?
2026 has started with a range of major lenders cutting rates, including Barclays, Nationwide and Lloyds.
Unfortunately for buyers, rate are not plummeting. Instead, lenders are gradually cutting rates as they battle for new business.
Current base rate forecasts predict the next cut will happen at the MPC meeting in March. This means that rates should continue to drift down into the Spring.
