Half Year Property Market Report – 2026

As we enter the 2nd half of 2026, it is fair to say the property market has once again demonstrated its resilience. The first six months of the year have been dominated by a challenging economic and political backdrop. Interest rates have remained higher than many buyers and sellers would ideally like, increasing borrowing costs and affordability pressures. More recently, the escalating conflict in the Middle East has created additional global uncertainty, unsettling financial markets and affecting consumer confidence. Understandably, many homeowners have questioned whether now is the right time to move.

Despite these headwinds, the housing market has continued to function well. Well-presented, realistically priced homes continue to attract strong interest, whilst buyers remain motivated, albeit more discerning and price conscious than during the exceptionally buoyant years following the pandemic.
Against this backdrop, we are incredibly proud of what the team at Sparks Ellison has achieved.

So how does this look for the first 6 months of this year for our sales department.
New properties coming to market 11% up on last year.
338 Market appraisals/valuations conducted.
3005 viewings conducted.
628 offers on properties dealt with.
Sales agreed 1% up on last year (Given the backdrop, this is encouraging as latest Zoopla data shows a 7% drop nationally).
Average % of asking price achieved 97.33% (The result of correct valuing and good negotiation). 
Average sales price £463,200.
Average days on market 89.
Clients actually moving 33% up on last year (This is exceptionally positive).
Average of 128 days from agreeing a sale to moving.

Our market share has continued to strengthen, and we have once again been responsible for a significant proportion of all homes sold in Chandler’s Ford and the surrounding area, selling more properties than the next two agents combined.

The results are no accident. They are the product of a highly experienced team, honest pricing advice, proactive communication, exceptional marketing and, above all, an unwavering commitment to achieving the very best outcome for every client. We know that moving home can be one of life’s biggest decisions, and our team never loses sight of the trust our clients place in us.

One of the defining features of today’s market is the importance of pricing correctly from day one. Buyers are well informed, have plenty of choice and are quick to identify homes that represent good value. Those properties launched at realistic prices continue to generate strong viewing activity and competitive offers. Conversely overpriced homes often remain on the market for extended periods before eventually requiring price reductions and being sold at a later date for less than could have been achieved at the outset if priced correctly. The national data supporting this is endless.

Looking ahead to the second half of the year, we remain cautiously optimistic. If inflation eases and interest rates begin to reduce over the coming months, confidence is likely to improve further. Even if rates remain broadly where they are, we expect committed buyers and sellers to continue moving, as life events such as growing families, downsizing, job relocations and school catchment areas remain the primary drivers of the housing market.

At Sparks Ellison, we are excited about the months ahead. Our pipeline of agreed sales is very healthy, buyer enquiries remain encouraging, and we continue to see strong demand for quality homes across the area.
We would like to thank all of our clients, both past and present, for their continued trust and support. After more than 23 years serving our local community, we remain as passionate as ever about helping people move, and we look forward to assisting many more homeowners during the remainder of 2026.

Sparks Ellison – Trusted locally. Proven by results.