The property market has enjoyed its strongest July in four years, with savvy sellers leading the way by pricing realistically and attracting motivated buyers despite the distraction of the summer holidays.
The latest market data shows that average property prices coming to the market have dipped by 1.3% (-£4,969) this month to £368,740. This seasonal drop is in line with the ten-year August average, following steeper-than-usual falls in June and July. Far from a negative signal, this adjustment has helped fuel stronger activity, as buyers take advantage of attractive pricing and increased choice.
A Strong July for Sales
- Sales agreed are up 8% on this time last year, marking the busiest July since the post-lockdown boom in 2020.
- The number of homes available to buy is 10% higher than last year, giving buyers more choice and keeping annual price growth muted at just 0.3%.
It’s clear that realistic pricing is paying off. Properties that come to market at sensible asking prices are finding buyers faster, with an average of just 32 days to secure a sale compared to 99 days for homes that require price reductions.
A Two-Speed Market Emerging
Not all sellers are adjusting their expectations, and this is creating a clear divide.
- 34% of properties for sale have seen price reductions, a figure only surpassed at this time of year in 2023.
- The overall average time to find a buyer is now 62 days, but competitively priced properties are moving much quicker.
This two-speed market highlights the importance of working with experienced estate agents who understand how to price strategically from the outset.
Boost from Falling Mortgage Rates
The financial backdrop is also improving. The Bank of England has delivered its third interest rate cut of the year, and Rightmove’s daily mortgage tracker shows that the average two-year fixed mortgage rate now sits at 4.49%, down from 5.17% this time last year.
Lower rates are giving buyers more confidence and improving affordability, though some uncertainty remains over whether a fourth cut will follow before year-end after a closer-than-expected Bank vote.
What This Means for Sellers
For homeowners considering selling, now is an excellent window of opportunity. The combination of motivated buyers, greater affordability, and a healthy level of market activity makes this a strong moment to achieve a sale—provided properties are priced realistically.
At Bradley Hall Estate Agents, our local expertise and market insight mean we can help you set the right asking price and position your home to stand out in today’s competitive landscape.
Looking ahead, experts predict that the combination of improved affordability and increased housing stock will continue to support steady market activity into the autumn. While headline price growth is likely to remain modest, the underlying trend shows that well-presented, realistically priced homes are attracting strong interest. For sellers, this reinforces the importance of preparing properties properly—whether through high-quality marketing, professional photography, or ensuring homes are move-in ready—to capture buyer attention in a competitive marketplace.
Thinking of selling? Contact our team today to book a free market appraisal and take advantage of this active summer market.
Find your nearest Bradley Hall Residential office here: https://www.bradleyhall.co.uk/contact/
Arrange your free valuation here: https://links.bradleyhall.co.uk/valuations
