Autumn housing market recovery fails to materialise
The anticipated autumn recovery in the UK housing market has not materialised, according to new data from Landmark Information Group analysing the three months from July to September 2026.
The property data company’s analysis shows the housing market in England and Wales remains subdued but steady, with new listings 2% lower year-on-year, though September matched last year’s level. Sold subject to contract volumes averaged 11% lower year-on-year across the quarter.
Whilst agreed sales increased between August and September, the uptick was weaker than the same period in 2025. Search order volumes fell 12% year-on-year, with the expected September build failing to occur, whilst completions dropped 7% annually.
Scotland sees similar decline
Scotland’s market mirrored the subdued performance, with both listings and sold subject to missives volumes averaging 8% lower year-on-year.
Simon Brown, Chief Executive of Landmark Information Group, said: “The market remains subdued, and there is little in this quarter’s data to suggest that will change in the near term. People still want to move, but borrowing costs and continued global uncertainty are weighing on their decision to do so. Speculation around possible property tax changes ahead of the Autumn Budget adds to that caution.”
Brown added that longer transaction times in a quieter market highlight the need for reform, with buyers and sellers requiring reliable information earlier in the process.
Delayed decisions and rental stock
Ben Robinson, Managing Director of Landmark Estate Agency Services, suggested September’s seasonal uplift may reflect delayed decisions rather than broader confidence improvement. The challenges facing estate agencies in the current market environment remain significant.
Robinson noted that ex-rental properties are a primary driver of sustained property availability, making the mix of homes coming to market an important factor when assessing seller confidence. He warned that if buyer activity remains subdued and wider economic and geopolitical uncertainty continues, prospective sellers may continue to delay their plans.
The data suggests any momentum from September may struggle to carry through the autumn period, with estate agents facing ongoing challenges in converting interest into completed transactions.
