Property Market Update: August 2025 and a Year-To-Date
Welcome to our latest update on the UK’s premium property market.
Whether you’re thinking of selling, actively looking to buy, or simply tracking the luxury market’s pulse, here’s what the numbers and trends are telling us so far in 2025.
Strong listings & consistent buyer demand
This year has seen a notable increase in choice: year-to-date, the number of premium properties available for sale has averaged over 93,000, up around 13 % from 2024 and nearly 80 % higher than in more muted years like 2022. That momentum shows more sellers are confident to place their high-end homes on the market.
Yet, despite that rising inventory, demand remains robust. Sales agreed across the sector are up about 8 % compared to last year, comfortably ahead of the five-year average. Simply put: more homes are coming to market, and discerning buyers are still active—even in the face of broader economic uncertainty.
However—and this is important—the seasonality of the summer months is evident. Listings dipped in August, as is typical during quieter periods, but stayed within expectations. What this tells us is that while some activity cools off, the overall strength of the market is holding steady.
What the warnings reveal (and what they mean for you)
Behind the encouraging headline figures, there are subtle warning signs—factors both buyers and sellers should keep in mind:
Price reductions are reaching new highs. In many cases, sellers are adjusting expectations, which reflects increasing sensitivity to valuation.
Withdrawals and fall-throughs are also rising. Some sellers are pulling back, while some agreements fail to reach completion.
Time on market for unsold premium properties has averaged around 173 days. That’s a reminder that patience and strategy are essential in this sector.
These metrics suggest the market is more finely balanced than ever—leaning toward cautious optimism rather than exuberant confidence.
What this means for sellers
If you’re considering selling now or already on the market, here are some practical takeaways:
Price with confidence but also flexibility. Use data and comparable properties smartly, but be ready to adjust if feedback indicates a misalignment.
Enhance your marketing beyond the usual. Think twilight images, drone views, thoughtfully staged interiors, targeted reach. A fresh or inventive presentation can reignite interest quickly.
Don’t rush to reduce your price first. A recalibrated presentation or refreshed visuals sometimes recaptures buyer attention without needing to drop the asking figure immediately.
Work with an agent who responds, not reacts. You want someone proactive—bringing solutions and adjustments, not simply relying on market winds.
What this means for buyers
If you're hunting in the premium market:
You have choice. With more properties on sale, there’s a better opportunity to find something that ticks your boxes.
Negotiation is real again. With sellers more open to price reductions or flexible terms, you may secure favourable terms—particularly for homes on the market a while.
Be ready to act. The stronger properties will still attract multiple interest, so having your finances in order and being swift will give you an edge.
Look beyond the superficial. Pay attention to condition, service, views, orientation, and the potential for upgrading or repositioning—especially in a market where value-add can make a difference.
Looking ahead: autumn & beyond
As we enter the traditionally busier autumn season, the groundwork laid during the first half of 2025 suggests continued activity. But all eyes will be on the upcoming Autumn Budget and possible policy changes. Market sentiment could shift if taxation, stamp duty or property-related regulation proposals gain traction.
For now, the premium market is navigating with resilience: more listings, steady demand, and activity even under uncertainty. Whether you’re buying or selling, it’s a moment to be bold but thoughtful.
If you’d like a personal discussion on how these trends affect your property or plans, we’re always here to chat.
Credit: Simon Gates - Opening The Gates
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