News about the economy last week was met with raised eyebrows in Westminster. Growth was labelled 'snail-like'. And to be honest, they're not wrong.
Having said this, 0.3 per cent growth against predictions of just 0.1 per cent isn't too shabby.
Compared with the contraction we saw in 2023, it's a step in the right direction. Small steps? Yes. But steps nonetheless.
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Better still, construction, which is so essential for the property trade, is up 1.2 per cent.
That might sound like a dry statistic, but from the front line, it really matters.
Builders being busy doesn't just mean more houses, extensions, and loft conversions – it also signals confidence. And the best thing about confidence? It's infectious.
When people see movement, they start to believe things are picking up. And when they believe, they act. Simple.
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When people see movement, they start to believe things are picking up
| GETTYThis is the backdrop as we head into September, traditionally one of the most active months for the housing market.
After what has been – in property if not weather terms – a damp squib of a summer, there's reason for cautious optimism.
Here's why. Interest rates are now at their lowest level in over two years and look set to fall further.
Transaction volumes are already showing signs of life.
Jonathan Rolande shares his predictions
| JONATHAN ROLANDEAnd, politically, there’s some clarity on the horizon, albeit not without its challenges.
Rachel Reeves’ plans for a new property tax aimed at overseas buyers and high-value homes have started to generate debate.
While the full impact remains to be seen, it signals that housing will stay high on the political agenda, and reforms may finally be coming.
For now, it's something agents and investors alike will be watching closely.
Put all that together, and September is shaping up to be considerably better than the summer slog.
Let's be clear, though. It won't be the runaway boom that many estate agents, homeowners, and sellers might dream of.
Things will still move more slowly than some would like. But compared with the virtual stagnation of recent months? It will feel like a welcome shift in gear.
Savvy agents will already be preparing, refreshing listings, retaking photos, slashing prices on stale stock, and targeting the 'back to school' family buyers who often drive activity in early autumn as they consider next year's school plans.
The deals done in September will be the ones that carry many property businesses through the winter, and agents are pinning their hopes on it.
The market has been stuck in the slow lane for what feels like an eternity.
But there's a feeling of optimism in the air – cautious optimism, but optimism nonetheless.
And once confidence builds and activity spreads, the change can feel sudden.
We've been waiting long enough. It will soon be time to see if September really delivers.
Jonathan Rolande is a property expert from the National Association of Property Buyers and the founder of House Buy Fast. For more free advice, visit www.jonathanrolande.co.uk.