Property Market Update | September 2025
The summer may be winding down, but the UK property market is showing signs of shifting momentum as we move into autumn. Buyers, sellers, landlords and renters are all feeling the impact of interest rates, supply, and tax reform speculation.
Buying: Price Growth Slows, Supply Grows
According to the latest ONS data, average UK house prices rose 2.8% year-on-year to £270,000 in the 12 months to July 2025. That’s down from 3.6% in the year to June. England saw prices at £292,000, up 2.7%, Wales at £209,000 up 2.0%, and Scotland at £192,000 up 3.3%.
At the same time, price pressure is easing: annual growth has cooled, and buyers have more options. More homes are on the market, particularly in southern England, leading to increased competition among sellers.
For buyers, this means you may be in a better position to secure the property you want - there will be lower competition in some areas and more stock. Being mortgage-ready and knowing what you want will help.
Selling: Realistic Pricing Is More Important Than Ever
Sellers are being challenged by growing supply and slowing annual growth. Recent data from Rightmove shows the average asking price in Britain is now £370,257, which is about 0.1% lower than this time last year. That’s the first year-on-year decline in asking prices since January 2024.
While more listings means more choice, it also means properties that are not competitively priced will stay on the market for longer. Realistic pricing, good presentation, and smooth legal and valuation prep are more valuable than ever.
If you’re selling, focus on being competitive, have legal and survey documents ready, and be open to realistic offers.
Lettings & Landlords: Rent Growth Easing, Challenges Mount
Private rent inflation is continuing to slow. The ONS reports that average UK private rents rose 5.7% year-on-year in the 12 months to August 2025, down from 5.9% to July. In England, that’s about £1,403/month, in Wales £811, and in Scotland £1,002.
Regionally, the North East leads with 9.2% rent inflation, while Yorkshire & The Humber shows the lowest at around 3.4%.
However, landlords are facing pressure. Rising costs, tenant-rights reforms, and tax-uncertainty are causing some to question whether holding property is still worth the squeeze.
If you’re a landlord in Sevenoaks, now is a good time to review running costs, ensure your property is well-maintained, anticipate regulatory compliance, and consider how any tax changes might affect your profitability.
Tax Reform & Stamp Duty: What’s on the Table
The conversation around property taxes is intensifying. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is reported to be exploring various reforms ahead of the Autumn Budget. Key proposals include allowing stamp duty payments in instalments over several years rather than as a lump sum at purchase, as a way to ease upfront costs for buyers.
There is also ongoing speculation about replacing Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) with a “homeowner tax” or a seller-side levy, particularly for homes above a certain threshold.
These reforms are still proposals, but they are influencing market confidence already. Sellers and buyers should stay aware, as whichever direction tax policy takes could shift costs, timing, and incentives.
What’s Next: Rates, Forecasts, and Autumn 2025 Outlook
Growth is expected to stay modest through the rest of 2025. Current forecasts don’t point to rapid gains - rather, slow but steady movement. With inflation still above target, borrowing costs remain a concern.
Mortgage rates are holding relatively high, and many analysts expect that rate cuts will come, if at all, gradually. Combined with tax policy uncertainty, this suggests that many buyers will move carefully, and many sellers will price cautiously.
Bottom Line: Be Ready, Not Rushed
Buyers, you’ve got a little more leverage than earlier in the year. Do your homework and get your financing in order.
Sellers, expect quieter market conditions in many places. Setting the right price will be more important than ever.
Landlords, costs, regulation, and tax change risks are real. Plan ahead.
Keep a close watch on proposed Stamp Duty or property tax reforms - they could change how deals are negotiated and who pays what.
Maison Partnership is here to help whether you’re buying or selling, Call 0333 242 3292 or email concierge@maisonpartnership.com to speak with our friendly team.
Note: The information in this article is based on data as of August/September 2025 and may change. Always seek professional advice for specific circumstances.
