UK housing market shows signs of stabilising in July
UKPulse Property Desk
The UK housing market may be showing the first signs of stabilising after several subdued months, with the slowdown in sales easing during July.
- The annual gap in agreed sales narrowed to 5.2% behind 2025 levels in July, after running around 10% behind since Easter.
- Net sales have strengthened over the past fortnight, going against the usual summer trend of slowing activity.
- Across the UK, homes sold subject to contract in July were 5.2% lower than in July 2025, but 13.6% higher than in July 2023.
The UK housing market may be showing initial signs of stabilisation, with figures for July indicating an easing in the slowdown of sales. The annual difference in agreed sales narrowed to 5.2% behind 2025 levels last month, an improvement from the approximately 10% gap seen since Easter.
Net sales, which account for fall-throughs, have also strengthened over the past two weeks. This trend goes against the typical seasonal slowdown in activity during the summer months.
While most regions saw fewer sales agreed compared to July 2025, every region except Scotland is being compared to an unusually active market in 2025. When compared to July 2023, sales in every region were comfortably ahead. Scotland was the only region to record annual growth against July 2025, with sales up 0.3%.
The average agreed sales price per square foot in June 2026 was £350.22, which is 1.94% higher than 12 months ago and 12.3% higher than five years ago.
Why this matters: The latest data suggests a potential shift in the market's direction, moving away from the difficult conditions of 2023.
What this means for you: For homeowners, there are still buyers in the market, but they have more choice. Properties that are well presented, marketed properly, and sensibly priced are attracting interest, while those with unrealistic asking prices may struggle.