UK Residential Market Survey, March 2026 (published 9th April 2026).
Geopolitically driven macro pressures weigh on housing market activity and the near-term outlook
Rising borrowing costs knock buyer demand and sales volumes
Aggregate house prices seen softening, with near-term expectations pointing to further modest declines in the months ahead
Twelve-month outlook for activity and prices turns from positive to broadly flat
The March 2026 RICS UK Residential Market Survey results show the macro-related fallout linked to the conflict in the Middle East is taking its toll on both current activity and forward-looking sentiment. With intensifying inflationary pressures pushing borrowing costs higher, buyer demand has weakened, while near-term expectations have turned significantly more cautious over the month.
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
Across Hertfordshire, Essex and Cambridgeshire, the residential property market has softened slightly over the past month, with buyer confidence becoming more cautious. This aligns with wider trends, where increased borrowing costs and global uncertainty are beginning to impact demand and transaction levels.
In our experience, this translates into a more price-sensitive market. Realistic pricing remains critical. Well-presented properties priced in line with current market conditions continue to attract interest; however, those positioned optimistically are seeing reduced enquiry levels, longer marketing periods, and greater negotiation.
We are also seeing a shift toward more needs-based transactions, with many buyers proceeding out of necessity rather than choice. As a result, there is a greater focus on due diligence, with continued demand for RICS Home Surveys (Level 2 and Level 3) as buyers seek to fully understand condition and potential liabilities prior to commitment.
RICS Valuations are playing an increasingly important role in the current market. With pricing becoming less certain in the short term, clients are seeking clear, evidence-based advice for a range of purposes including Help to Buy redemptions, Shared Ownership staircasing, probate, and taxation.
Overall, the market is showing signs of short-term adjustment rather than decline, with activity expected to remain subdued in the near term before stabilising. The longer-term outlook remains broadly flat, with performance likely to vary by location and property type.
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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