An industry body has reported a mixed picture in the rental market, with strong tenant demand coinciding with rising void periods. According to Propertymark’s August Housing Insight Report, the average number of new prospective tenant registrations per member branch rose to 121.
Propertymark stated that a gradual increase in void periods may indicate properties are taking slightly longer to secure new tenants. Despite this, approximately 10 prospective tenants were competing for each available rental property in August, and competition for suitable properties remains intense.
The report also highlights growing landlord frustration over new legislation and the difficulties of regaining possession of their properties. Some Propertymark agents warn that this frustration is prompting landlords to sell up rather than continue letting.
In the residential sales market, the number of new prospective buyers registering per member branch dipped in August 2026, falling to an average of 69 per branch. Nathan Emerson, chief executive of Propertymark, noted that the housing market is functioning but momentum remains uneven, with a gap between buyer and seller expectations.