Rightmove expert reacts to ONS figures

March 25, 2026
Rightmove logo

Colleen Babcock, property expert at Rightmove, said:

 “Today’s ONS figures reflect the seasonal uplift we typically see at the start of the year, which mirrors what we’ve already observed in our own January and February data. With the number of homes for sale now at its highest level in over a decade, buyers are benefiting from significantly more choice, and that competition between sellers is becoming more apparent.

“We’re seeing the longest average time to secure a buyer at this point in the year since 2019, with homes now taking around 64 days to find a buyer on average. This underlines how important it is for sellers to price realistically from the outset. In a market with plenty of available stock, homes that are priced correctly are better placed to attract early interest and secure a sale.

“While some movers may be taking a pause with their home-moving plans amid wider global uncertainty, overall activity has remained resilient. Sales agreed are just 3% below the busy market this time last year and still 15% ahead of 2024 levels. The market is still moving, albeit at a steadier and more considered pace as we head further into spring, despite ongoing global uncertainty.”

 

Rightmove

UK Property news updates shared directly from Rightmove PLC - the country's leading property portal.

You May Also Enjoy

Breaking News

UK House Price Index for January 2025

The latest index shows that: The average monthly rate of house price growth in January was -0.3%. Average UK house price annual inflation was 1.3% in the 12 months to January 2025. As a result, the average UK house price currently sits at £268,000.   Here are some thoughts from the Industry.   Damien Jefferies,…
Read More →
Breaking News

Exchange time reaches 135 days

Property transactions slow as exchange time reaches 135 days — up 45% on 2019 The time it takes to exchange contracts has risen to 135 days — 45% longer than in 2019 and 3% higher than last year — despite a drop in property transactions year-on-year, it emerged today. Novus Strategy, the transformation consultancy for…
Read More →
Breaking News

Industry response to latest inflation figures and its impact on housing

Industry response to UK inflation remaining at 3%. Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, comments: “Although inflation has remained steady since last month, it is important to acknowledge geopolitical tensions moving forward, and the effect such pressures may have on many households over the coming months. “Today’s news should help bring a measured sense of consistency…
Read More →
Breaking News

Foxtons Lettings Market Index – February 2026

Seasonal recovery as improved supply and demand indicates a return of market momentum   Lettings market is showing signs of seasonal recovery as we see market activity picking up, with February performance indicating that momentum is returning following a usually quieter winter period. Renter budgets remained broadly stable, averaging £540 per week year to date…
Read More →
to let sign 2025
Letting Agent Talk

The best time to list a rental property in London revealed

Lettings experts at Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward reveal the best time to list a rental property in London to get twice as many enquiries Spring is a natural reset for our homes with a light refresh going a long way to help us feel rejuvenated. A quick coat of paint where walls look tired, fresh…
Read More →
Rightmove logo
Breaking News

Rightmove expert reacts to ONS figures

Colleen Babcock, property expert at Rightmove, said:  “Today’s ONS figures reflect the seasonal uplift we typically see at the start of the year, which mirrors what we’ve already observed in our own January and February data. With the number of homes for sale now at its highest level in over a decade, buyers are benefiting…
Read More →