22 Jan Is Now a Good Time to Buy a House? Our 2026 Market Update

With the start of 2026, one question continues to be asked by many prospective buyers: is now a good time to buy a house?

It is an understandable question. Ongoing global and geopolitical uncertainty remains part of the wider backdrop, and buyers are naturally cautious about making major financial decisions. However, despite these external factors, the property market has begun the year with a noticeable sense of stability and improving confidence.

From what we are seeing locally, enquiry levels have remained consistent and many buyers are approaching the market with clear intentions rather than simply browsing. This early activity suggests a more settled start to the year than anticipated.

Why Buyers Are Asking This Question in 2026

Buyers today are better informed than ever before. Decisions are being shaped by interest rates, affordability, job security, and long-term plans rather than short-term speculation.

At the same time, early 2026 has seen a positive shift in market sentiment. Buyer confidence is improving, mortgage options are becoming more competitive, and the appeal of home ownership remains strong.

Whether now is the right time to buy will always depend on individual circumstances, but the signs at the start of this year are encouraging.

A Strong Start to the 2026 Property Market

The property market has opened 2026 with noticeable energy. Buyer enquiries have been healthy, viewings are taking place at encouraging levels, and well-presented homes are attracting genuine interest.

We are currently seeing:

• Strong demand for realistically priced properties
• Multiple viewings shortly after launch
• Offers coming forward quickly
• Some homes achieving full asking price
• Sales already being agreed early in the year

This activity suggests buyers who may have paused during earlier uncertainty are now more comfortable moving forward with their plans.

Why Buyer Confidence Appears to Be Returning

One of the main reasons buyer confidence is returning is the enduring appeal of home ownership.

Many buyers are looking beyond short-term headlines and focusing on longer-term priorities such as security, lifestyle, and future planning. Property continues to be viewed as a stable and practical foundation for the years ahead.

For many people, buying a home is about:

• Settling into a long-term base

• Gaining stability for family and work
• Having control over their living space
• Building equity rather than continuing to rent

These emotional and practical considerations are playing a crucial role in renewed buyer confidence.

What Falling Interest Rates Mean for Buyers

Interest rates remain a key factor shaping buyer behaviour.

With the Bank of England beginning to reduce interest rates, mortgage affordability has started to improve. This has resulted in more competitive mortgage products coming to market and greater choice for buyers.

At the same time, savings rates have become less attractive, leading many buyers to reassess where their money is best placed. For some, investing in property feels like a more rewarding long-term decision than leaving funds in low-interest accounts.

While interest rates are unlikely to return to historic lows, the direction of travel has been positive and has helped restore confidence among buyers.

Is Now a Good Time to Buy a House Compared to Waiting?

Many buyers consider waiting to see what happens next. However, waiting in a strengthening market can carry its own risks.

As confidence grows:

• Competition for desirable homes can increase
• Properties may sell more quicky
• Prices may become firmer in popular areas

Buyers who are prepared and ready to act often find themselves in a stronger position than those who delay and then face greater competition later.

No market is entirely predictable but acting while choice is still good and competition is manageable can offer real advantages.

What Types of Buyers Are Best Placed Right Now?

Different buyers are approaching the market with different goals, but several groups appear well placed in early 2026.

First-time buyers are benefiting from improving mortgage options and a broader range of available properties. Buying now allows them to start building equity rather than continuing to rent.

Home movers are finding that strong buyer demand is helping their own sales, making it easier to move on to the next property.

Downsizers are seeing good interest in family homes, creating opportunities to release equity and move into more manageable properties.

Each situation is unique, but the current market is offering opportunities across the board.

What Buyers Should Do Before Making a Move

Preparation is key in a competitive market. Buyers who are organised and informed are best placed to move quickly and confidently.

Before starting your search, it helps to:

• Set a clear budget.
• Arrange a mortgage agreement in principle.
• Understand local property values.
• Register with a trusted local estate agent.
• Be ready to act when the right property appears.

Being market-ready can make the difference between securing a home and missing out.

Our Local View – Is Now a Good Time to Buy a House?

From our local perspective, early 2026 presents a positive window of opportunity for many buyers.

The market is active, confidence is improving and mortgage conditions are becoming more supportive. Demand for excellent quality homes remains strong, but buyers who are prepared are still finding success.

Rather than focusing solely on national headlines, local market knowledge is essential. Conditions can vary significantly from area to area, which is why tailored advice is so important.

Taking the Next Step with Confidence

Whether now is the right time to buy will always depend on personal circumstances, but the current market is offering a more stable backdrop than many expected.

If you are considering buying and would like to understand local values, affordability, or the options available to you, speaking with an experienced local estate agent can help you plan with confidence.

At Kelvin Francis, we are always happy to offer clear, practical advice to help buyers navigate the market and make informed decisions at the right time.