UK Housing Market Update October 2025

The UK property market is in the spotlight this autumn, with big conversations happening around Stamp Duty reform, Capital Gains Tax, and the Government’s ambitious plan to build 1.5 million new homes over the next five years. The Conservative Party has even pledged to abolish Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) if re-elected – a move that could shake up the market.

But with all this change on the horizon, many are asking: is now the right time to buy or sell a home?

What’s Happening in the UK Property Market?

Recent data shows that house prices are stabilising after the post-COVID boom and the SDLT holidays. As of July 2025, the average UK house price was £269,735, up just 0.3% from the previous month.

This levelling out is probably due to a drop in the Bank of England’s base rate, which has helped ease mortgage interest rates after the spike following the September 2022 mini-budget.

Despite calmer prices, the market remains competitive, especially for first-time buyers who are using government schemes to get on the property ladder.

What Changes Could Be Coming?

There’s a lot of talk about reforming the home buying and selling process to make it faster, fairer, and less stressful. Some of the proposed changes include:

• Mandatory upfront information from sellers
• Binding contracts to reduce last-minute dropouts
• Digital processes to streamline transactions

These reforms are still under consultation, with no final decisions expected until late December 2025. This uncertainty is causing some buyers and sellers to pause their plans.

Should You Buy or Sell Now?

Ultimately, the decision to move home should be based on your personal circumstances, not just market speculation. Think about:

• Your family needs
• Job opportunities
• Lifestyle goals

While market trends and potential reforms are worth considering, your long-term plans matter most.

Need Advice?

If you're thinking about buying or selling a property, our residential property team is here to help. We can guide you through the current market and help you make the best decision for your situation. To speak to one of our property experts, call 0800 652 8373 or email [email protected] to learn more.