Property industry figures are responding to the latest Zoopla House Price Index, which suggests a recovery in buyer activity. Buyer searches have increased by 7% year-on-year over the past four weeks, despite households being able to borrow 9% less than at the start of 2026.
Sales agreed remain 6% below last year's level, though Zoopla indicates this gap is beginning to narrow as mortgage rates stabilise. This uptick in activity is being observed across every region, suggesting a broader shift in sentiment.
However, affordability remains a significant constraint, with higher mortgage rates reducing buying power. Industry experts note that buyers are more price-conscious and are taking longer to assess their options. The availability of more homes for sale, up 5% overall, gives buyers greater choice and requires sellers to be realistic on pricing.