UK Housing Market Sees Record Surge in New Sellers and Early-Year Price Growth

Rightmove reports a strong start to 2025 with increased listings, buyer activity, and a 1.7% rise in asking prices, though affordability challenges persist.

A record number of new sellers entered the UK housing market since Boxing Day, with listings up 11% compared to the same period last year.
The average asking price for newly listed homes rose by 1.7% this month to £366,189, marking the largest early-year increase since 2020.
Buyer activity has also increased, with a 9% rise in inquiries to estate agents and an 11% uptick in agreed sales compared to early 2024.
High mortgage rates and affordability constraints remain significant challenges, with average fixed-rate mortgages hovering near 4.75%.
Uncertainty looms over the market due to the pace of expected interest rate cuts and the expiration of a temporary stamp duty reduction on March 31.