UK Residential Market Survey, June 2026 (published 9th July 2026).
Momentum remains weak, though some indicators point to the recent downturn in activity easing
Measures of buyer demand and newly agreed sales still negative, albeit marginally less so than before
Headline house price indicator largely stable in recent months, although this remains consistent with a modest degree of downward pressure
Near-term sales expectations turn somewhat less negative, but are yet to signal a genuine turnaround
The June 2026 RICS UK Residential Market Survey points to only tentative signs of improvement, despite the recent easing in global geopolitical tensions and the associated unwinding in oil prices. That said, anecdotal remarks from respondents suggest that domestic political uncertainty is emerging as another headwind for the market. Overall, activity indicators remain subdued, although the pace of deterioration appears to be moderating. While the near-term outlook for sales volumes remains relatively soft, sentiment is less downbeat than in recent months, suggesting that the housing market may be moving towards a more stable phase.
What is the UK Residential Market Survey?
The UK Residential Market Survey is used by the government, the Bank of England and other key institutions, including the IMF, as an indicator of current and future conditions in UK residential sales and lettings. It is covered extensively in the media and is the leading source of market intelligence, highly regarded both by investors and across the industry.
Navah Consulting’s View
In our opinion, the residential property market remains subdued but is showing signs of stabilisation. Buyer demand and transaction levels continue to be below long-term averages, although the pace of slowdown appears to have moderated in recent months. Affordability pressures, together with wider political and economic uncertainty, continue to influence buyer confidence and decision-making.
Across our operating areas of Hertfordshire, Essex, Cambridgeshire, Suffolk and North and East London, we continue to see that realistically priced properties attract genuine interest, whilst those marketed at ambitious asking prices often experience longer selling periods or require price adjustments. Buyers also remain increasingly discerning, placing greater emphasis on value, condition and overall presentation.
As always, every property and local market is different. National trends provide useful context, but individual values are influenced by a wide range of factors, including location, condition, specification and prevailing local demand.
At Navah Consulting, we continue to support buyers, sellers and investors with clear, independent advice through:
• RICS Home Survey Level 2 & Level 3
• RICS Red Book Valuations (sale, purchase, probate, shared ownership, Help to Buy)
• Reinstatement Cost Assessments
As RICS-qualified surveyors based in Bishop’s Stortford, we are well placed to assist clients across Hertfordshire, Essex, Cambridgeshire, London and the surrounding areas. Key areas include Bishop’s Stortford, Stansted Mountfitchet, Cambridge, Hertford, Harlow, Sawbridgeworth, Chelmsford and Saffron Walden.
If you are considering buying, selling or simply require professional guidance, please feel free to get in touch, our team will be happy to help.
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