UK Residential Market Survey, November 2025 (published 8th December 2025).
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.
Market conditions remain generally weak
Buyer demand trends remains downbeat.
National house prices still reportedly edging lower.
Forward-looking sentiment shows little sign of any near-term improvement in sales market activity, although twelve-month expectations are modestly brighter.
The November 2025 RICS UK Residential Market Survey results continue to portray a subdued backdrop, with metrics on buyer demand and sales volumes still firmly in negative territory. Moreover, forward-looking indicators have yet to suggest any meaningful near-term improvement, with the tone of the data showing no discernible reaction to the recent Budget (three-quarters of the sample was gathered after the event).
Navah Consulting’s view
Across Hertfordshire, Essex and Cambridgeshire, the latest RICS UK Residential Market Survey echoes what we are seeing on the ground: overall conditions remain subdued, with buyer demand still notably downbeat. Nationally, house prices continue to edge lower, and locally we are experiencing the same hesitancy, particularly where properties are not priced in line with current market realities. Sales progression is slower, and many purchasers remain cautious, influenced by wider economic uncertainty and a lack of clear positive indicators in the short term.
Despite this, there are pockets of activity. Well-presented homes with sensible pricing continue to attract interest, particularly from committed, equity-driven or chain-free buyers. We have also seen steady growth in instructions for RICS Home Surveys Level 2 & Level 3, as well as independent RICS Valuations. In a market where buyers are more discerning, due diligence is becoming increasingly important.
Energy efficiency, heating systems, roofing condition, and the presence of damp or mould remain key considerations for purchasers. Where defects or significant remedial works are identified, negotiations tend to be firmer and timelines longer, reflecting the price-sensitive nature of the current environment.
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
Even in a quieter market, informed decision-making remains essential. 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.
