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Where the market actually stands
House price growth across the UK has been modest in 2026, with some forecasters pointing to figures as low as 1-2% for the year. That's a far cry from the sharper growth seen in previous cycles, and it reflects a market where confidence has been dented by wider economic uncertainty, including global tensions and ongoing inflation concerns.
Regionally, the picture is uneven. London and the South East have seen flat prices or small annual falls, largely due to stretched affordability and the higher stamp duty costs that come with pricier homes. Meanwhile, more affordable regions — the North East, Yorkshire and Humber, Scotland and Northern Ireland — have continued to see solid, steady growth. Wherever you're buying, local conditions matter more than national headlines.
On the borrowing side, the Bank of England base rate has sat in the mid-3% range through much of 2026, with mortgage rates edging back up after a period of relief earlier in the year. Average standard variable rates remain notably higher than the fixed deals many buyers are chasing, which means budgets are tighter and every cost needs justifying.
What this means if you're buying right now
A slower, more cautious market is, in some ways, good news for buyers — it typically means less competition, more room to negotiate, and sellers who are more willing to engage seriously on price or repairs. But it also means buyers can't afford costly surprises. With mortgage repayments already stretching monthly budgets, an unexpected repair bill for a leaking roof or a damp problem can be the difference between a purchase that works and one that doesn't.
This is where a professional survey earns its keep. A RICS-level survey gives you an independent, expert assessment of the property's actual condition before you're legally committed. It flags issues you'd never spot on a viewing — problems hidden in the loft, behind walls, or under floors — and puts you in a position to negotiate from a place of knowledge, not guesswork.
Negotiating with confidence in a cautious market
Because affordability is tighter across the board in 2026, sellers are generally more receptive to reasonable requests following a survey — whether that's a price reduction, a contribution towards repairs, or the seller fixing the issue before completion. Buyers who skip the survey have no such leverage, and no way of knowing what they've actually agreed to buy.
“A slower market doesn't mean fewer defects — older housing stock, extreme weather events, and years of deferred maintenance mean structural and damp issues remain just as common as ever.”
Don't let a slower market lull you into skipping due diligence
It can be tempting, in a buyer's market, to think you have all the time and power in the negotiation. But a slower market doesn't mean fewer defects — older housing stock, extreme weather events, and years of deferred maintenance mean structural and damp issues remain just as common as ever, if not more so.
Our RICS-qualified surveyors help buyers across the region make informed decisions in a market that rewards caution. Whether you need a HomeBuyer Report or a full Building Survey, we'll help you choose the right level of inspection for your property.