The question on the minds of homebuyers and sellers across the country is this: is it a buyers or sellers market in the UK in 2025? The answer is not straightforward. The UK property market is evolving quickly, influenced by interest rates, buyer demand, political shifts, and economic pressures. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you understand where the power lies in today’s market — with buyers or sellers — and what it means for you.
Knowing whether it’s a buyers or sellers market can shape your entire strategy. From pricing your property correctly to negotiating with confidence, understanding the direction of the housing market could be the difference between a smart investment and a costly mistake. Let’s break it down.
What Does ‘Buyers’ or ‘Sellers’ Market’ Really Mean?
A buyers market occurs when there are more properties available than buyers looking to purchase them. This oversupply means sellers often need to be more flexible on price and conditions. Buyers have the advantage of choice and negotiation, leading to lower prices and better deals. In this kind of market, patience pays off for house-hunters.
A sellers market, by contrast, arises when buyer demand outpaces supply. In this scenario, homes sell quickly, often above asking price, and sellers can be more selective. Bidding wars are more common, and buyers may have to compromise or act fast to secure a property. Understanding the difference is crucial if you’re asking: is it a buyers or sellers market right now?
The Current State of the UK Housing Market in 2025
So, is it a buyers or sellers market in the UK in 2025? The answer varies depending on where you live. In London, Edinburgh, and parts of the South East, we’re still seeing strong demand outpacing supply — suggesting it remains a sellers market in these high-demand areas. Properties are moving quickly and sellers are still achieving close to (or above) asking prices.
However, in cities like Birmingham, Leeds, and areas in the North West, the market is shifting. Increased inventory, stabilised mortgage rates, and cautious buyer behaviour are slowly moving the needle towards a buyers market. These locations are seeing more price reductions and longer time on market, giving buyers more room to negotiate and more control over the process.
Key Signs That Indicate a Buyers or Sellers Market
You don’t have to be an estate agent to identify what type of market you’re in. There are several key indicators that help answer the question: is it a buyers or sellers market? If properties in your area are sitting on the market for several weeks or months, and you’re seeing frequent price cuts, it’s likely becoming a buyers market.
On the flip side, if listings are snapped up within days, often after bidding wars, and if sellers are not willing to budge on price, then it’s clearly a sellers market. Keep an eye on supply levels, the average number of offers per listing, and any patterns in sale-to-list price ratios — these are all solid clues.
How 2025 Compares to 2024
Many buyers and sellers are asking: is it a buyers or sellers market in 2025 compared to 2024? The housing market in 2024 was heavily influenced by rising interest rates and cost-of-living pressures, which made buyers more cautious. This led to a short-term softening of prices and slowed down transactions, especially in secondary markets.
In 2025, however, interest rates have stabilised slightly, and buyer confidence is gradually returning — but not everywhere. While prime urban locations remain competitive and seller-favoured, suburban and rural markets are showing more balance or even tipping towards buyers. Compared to 2024, there’s more nuance in the market, with greater regional variation.
What It Means for Buyers
If you’re buying a home in 2025, the answer to is it a buyers or sellers market is critical. In regions where buyers are gaining the upper hand, you may benefit from lower prices, motivated sellers, and more room for negotiation on repairs or completion timelines. It’s also an opportunity to avoid frantic bidding wars and inflated offers.
However, in areas that remain competitive, buyers need to be quick, flexible, and financially prepared. Having your mortgage agreement in principle, being chain-free, or offering a quick close can still give you a crucial edge in a sellers market. Be ready to act fast — but only on the right property at the right price.
What It Means for Sellers
If you’re a seller wondering is it a sellers market right now, the answer is: it depends. In hotspots like London, Oxford, and parts of the commuter belt, sellers still hold the advantage. Well-priced homes in desirable areas are attracting multiple offers and moving quickly. But overpricing or poor presentation can still backfire, even in a strong market.
In more balanced or buyer-leaning areas, sellers need to be realistic. Pricing your home competitively, investing in professional photography, and being open to negotiations will help secure a deal. In a transitioning market, patience and preparation are your best assets.
Outlook for the Rest of 2025 and Beyond
Looking ahead, the big question remains: will it become a sellers market again across the UK? Experts predict a relatively stable market for the rest of 2025, with no dramatic shifts in interest rates or government housing policy expected. However, continued lack of new housing stock may prevent a full swing to a buyers market nationwide.
By early 2026, if inflation remains under control and new housing starts rise, the market may begin to favour buyers more broadly. Still, for now, most regions of the UK are seeing a delicate balance — making it neither a clear buyers market nor a full-on sellers market.
Conclusion
So, is it a buyers or sellers market in the UK right now? The answer lies somewhere in the middle. Certain locations still favour sellers, especially where demand remains strong. Others are tipping in favour of buyers, thanks to stabilising interest rates and increased inventory. Knowing where your local market sits on this spectrum is key to making informed decisions in 2025.
Whether you’re buying or selling, pay close attention to regional trends, speak with estate agents, and track listings in your target area. The UK property market is never one-size-fits-all — but with the right strategy, you can still make it work in your favour.
FAQs
Is it a buyers or sellers market right now in the UK?
It depends on the region. London and the South East lean towards a sellers market, while other areas like the Midlands and North show signs of a buyers market.
What is a sellers market in property?
A sellers market is when buyer demand exceeds housing supply, allowing sellers to set higher prices and negotiate favourable terms.
Is 2025 a good time to buy a house in the UK?
Yes, particularly in areas where the market is balancing or tilting toward buyers. Conditions are more stable than they were in 2024.
How do I know if it’s a buyers or sellers market locally?
Check average selling times, price trends, and inventory levels in your area. Local estate agents are also a good source of insight.
Will it become a sellers market again across the UK?
It’s likely to remain balanced in most areas through 2025. However, regional markets like London may retain sellers market traits due to ongoing demand.
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