A New Year is upon us, and the property market is set to continue to evolve following years of economic change. Buyers and sellers heading into 2026 will need to be sharper, faster and better informed than ever.
From pricing pressures to buyer expectations, the rules are likely to shift once again. With that in mind, here are five key things anyone buying or selling property in 2026 should keep firmly in mind.
1. Pricing realistically will be critical
“The days of optimistic pricing and waiting for the market to catch up are largely over. With buyers more cautious and better informed, overpriced homes are likely to sit unsold.
“Buyers in 2026 will be extremely price-sensitive. If a property isn’t priced correctly from day one, it risks going stale very quickly. Sellers need to understand the true value of their home, not what it might have achieved during peak market conditions.”
Using up-to-date local data rather than historic highs will be key.
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'The days of optimistic pricing are largely over'
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2. Speed and certainty will matter more than ever
“Long, drawn-out transactions are becoming less appealing in an uncertain economy. Many sellers will prioritise certainty over squeezing out the last few thousand pounds.
“We’re seeing a growing number of people who simply want a guaranteed outcome. Whether that’s to avoid a chain collapse or financial stress, speed and reliability are now major decision-drivers.”
Buyers who can demonstrate strong finances and flexibility on completion dates will stand out.
3. Property condition will directly affect demand
“In 2026, I predict more and more buyers will be far less willing to take on major renovation projects, particularly with ongoing material and labour costs.
“Move-in-ready homes attract the widest audience. Properties needing extensive work often require a price adjustment to reflect the time, cost and uncertainty involved.”
Sellers may benefit from completing minor upgrades or repairs before listing, while buyers should budget carefully for refurbishment costs.
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4. Alternative selling routes will continue to grow
“Traditional estate agency sales are no longer the only option. Auctions, part-exchange and quick-sale firms are becoming more mainstream.
“People are more open-minded about how they sell. For some, a fast, chain-free sale makes more sense than testing the open market for months.”
Understanding all available routes allows sellers to choose the best option for their circumstances.
Sellers may benefit from completing minor upgrades or repairs before listing
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5. Professional advice will be essential
“With changing regulations, lending criteria and buyer behaviour, expert guidance can save time and money.
“The biggest mistakes happen when people rely on outdated assumptions. The 2026 market has its own rules, and getting advice early can make the difference between success and disappointment.”
For buyers and sellers alike, preparation and adaptability will be the defining factors in navigating the year ahead.
Property expert Jonathan Rolande is the founder of House Buy Fast. For more information visit www.jonathanrolande.co.uk
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