UK Residential Market Survey, September 2025 (published 7th October 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.
Subdued momentum still evident across the sales market
New buyer enquiries and agreed sales metrics both remain in negative territory
House prices still seen creeping lower at the aggregate level
Forward-looking sentiment suggests the market backdrop is unlikely to change materially over the coming months
The September 2025 RICS Residential Survey results remain consistent with a subdued market backdrop at present, with measures of buyer demand and agreed sales still negative. Significantly, forward-looking sentiment points to a continuation of this generally underwhelming picture over the coming months.
Navah Consulting’s view
From our perspective across Hertfordshire, Essex, and Cambridgeshire, the subdued sentiment highlighted in the latest RICS Residential Survey accurately reflects what we’re seeing on the ground. Buyer confidence remains cautious, and sales are taking longer to agree, particularly where asking prices haven’t yet adjusted to current conditions.
While demand is muted, well-presented and realistically priced homes continue to attract steady interest, especially from cash and equity-strong buyers. We’re also noting a rise in pre-purchase RICS Home Surveys Level 2 & 3 reports and independent RICS Valuations, as purchasers seek clarity and reassurance before committing.
Pricing remains sensitive, with many buyers focusing on energy performance, maintenance history, and overall presentation. Properties requiring significant work are facing heavier negotiation.
Looking ahead, we expect the autumn market to remain steady but restrained, with activity largely driven by motivated sellers and informed buyers who understand today’s valuation realities.
At Navah Consulting, we continue to support homeowners, buyers, and investors through:
The market may be subdued, but informed decision-making remains key, and that’s where expert, RICS-qualified advice can make all the difference. In a more cautious market, our focus remains on delivering clear, reliable, and client-focused advice. Based in Bishop’s Stortford, we are well placed to serve clients across Hertfordshire, Essex, Cambridgeshire, London and the surrounding areas. Key locations include Stansted Mountfitchet, Cambridge, Hertford, Harlow, Sawbridgeworth, Chelmsford and Saffron Walden. Get in touch today, and we’ll be happy to advise further.
