Property Market Update – Q3 2025
Welcome to our latest update on the UK premium property market.
Whether you’re considering selling or buying at this level, here are the most relevant trends and what they mean for you in simple, practical terms.
The market is still moving – but with caution
Despite widespread talk of tax reform, budget uncertainty and a traditionally quieter summer, the premium end of the market has held up better than many expected. Both new listings and sales agreed in Q3 registered slightly up year-on-year and above the five-year average for the period. This means there is still genuine appetite from both sellers and buyers—even in challenging conditions.
That said, it is clear the market is more fragile than before. Rising figures for price reductions, fall-throughs (when a sale is agreed but doesn’t complete) and longer selling times all point toward a more selective, careful market.
In short: yes, activity is ongoing, but strategy matters more than ever.
What this means if you’re selling
If you’re a seller, here’s how to make sense of the environment:
- Pricing is key: With the market less buoyant than previous years, setting a realistic asking price, supported by recent comparable sales, is more important than ever.
- Presentation and timing: Because buyer demand is more cautious, a well-presented home that can move quickly has a competitive advantage.
- Preparedness counts: Expect longer selling times and more scrutiny; your documentation, property condition and marketing all need to be in order. The average selling time for million-pound homes has stretched significantly.
- Don’t wait for a rush: Some sellers may delay because of uncertainty, but well-positioned homes on the market now can stand out in a quieter field.
What this means if you’re buying
Buyers also have a specific set of take-aways:
- You have more choice: With somewhat more listings and fewer ‘panic’ buyers, you may find more properties that suit your criteria.
- Negotiation potential: Sellers may be more open to sensible offers or favourable terms, especially if a property has been on the market for a while.
- Act with confidence: Even though the market is more cautious, a good property in the right condition and location will still attract interest. Be ready to move when you find your match.
- Value matters: In a market where buyers are more selective, aspects like condition, features, position and presentation add relative value. Don’t just view what a home is, but what it can become.
Special insight: Where the opportunities lie
One of the most interesting pockets of activity lies in what we might call the “retirement relocation” segment. Data shows a notable increase in homeowners in retirement moving out of higher value homes, particularly detached houses, bungalows, and homes in rural or semi-rural locations.
This opens a window for both sellers (who may be the next planning to move) and buyers (looking for homes with potential and flexibility). Also worth noting is the rise of off-market activity in the premium end: for properties above £1 million, a significant portion of deals are now handled discreetly, outside the public listings.
Final thoughts
In short, Q3 2025 confirms that the UK premium property market hasn’t stalled, but it has changed. Buyer confidence is more measured, sellers are more cautious, and the margin between success and frustration is narrower than in recent years.
Whether you’re buying or selling, the key is to approach the market with clarity: great homes in strong locations, properly marketed and well-priced, will continue to perform. Patience and preparation now will pay off.
The team at By Design are always here to talk through what this means for your property or your moving plans.
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