We’ve just wrapped up a record-breaking first quarter and it’s been full steam ahead. March saw a surge in completions as buyers raced to meet the stamp duty deadline. With interest rates starting to ease and confident market sentiment we’ve seen strong sales across all price ranges.
Key indicators are all pointing in the right direction - valuations, new listings and viewings are all up year-on-year and our sales pipeline remains strong. While global events (like the recent Trump tariffs) may cause some market jitters, demand remains high and mortgage rates are continuing to trend down.
Sentiment plays a crucial role in shaping the market outlook, and we’ll be watching closely to see how governments respond to this new era of tariffs and how those responses influence public attitudes toward finance and property. We’ve already seen notable fluctuations in global stock markets, which naturally raise concerns.
That said, the fundamentals remain reassuring: people will always need homes and lenders will always need to lend. Encouragingly, some reports suggest that recent turbulence could even prompt a faster reduction in the bank rate to help stabilise confidence in the markets. So, while we remain alert to global shifts, we continue to look ahead with measured optimism.
Lettings Update
It’s a big year for the rental market and I highly recommend a read of Our Lettings Director Rebecca Whitehead’s in-depth article on the subject. The upcoming Renters Reform Bill will bring major changes, including the end of Assured Short Hold Tenancies and no-fault evictions. Demand for rental properties is stronger than ever, but with some landlords choosing to sell, supply is tightening, pushing rents higher in many areas.
Mortgage News
Good news for buyers, mortgage rates are staying competitive, with deals just above 4% for those with a healthy deposit. Our mortgage department has helped clients secure over £31 million worth of mortgages in the first quarter of this year. We believe we offer an unrivalled service to borrowers to ensure they not only get the best deal but are kept abreast of movements in rates and trends throughout their mortgage term.
Spring is here and the mood across our offices is upbeat, yet watchful. Just like in politics, things can change quickly, so staying informed is crucial to staying ahead. As always, our focus remains on helping every client make the right move at the right time, whether buying, selling, renting or remortgaging.
Happy house hunting,
John Halman
