‘Normal October’ Property Market Comment

To those with industry experience and those who remember the “normal October” – most would agree that the last month has been what is normally expected at this time of year.

It could be good news for the good estate agents, those who specialise in marketing property, finding buyers, negotiating sales and then doing everything possible to get them to exchange – that’s what a good agent does and needs to do in a normal market, the market we have moved back into following the boom frenzy over the last couple of years.

Whilst we may read reports that 76% of homes are selling under asking price (*source NAEA Propertymark insights) this is normal – that what happens in normal times – asking prices are set to attract buyers who make offers, usually below asking price – the great news here is that for 24% of homes agreeing sales, they are at or above asking price – that’s great news for about a ¼ of the sellers on the market. In the UK – Housing Transactions levels are now back to normal pre pandemic levels however mortgage approvals are reportedly down by 30% countered with about 36% of transactions currently to cash buyers. Although house prices may have come back slightly, on average in the UK the average house price is still £50,000 higher than pre covid prices.

Where are interest rates are heading? :- Currently we are seeing these starting to come down and whilst higher than last 10 years – they are now back to the long term average. Indications are that medium to long term fix rates now available sub 5%. Expected forecast now for rates from Bank of England appears to be that on current expectations rate will be held around 5.25% for short term then start to come a little lower in 2024. Consumer Price Index (inflation) puts pressure on interest rates as the Bank of England uses rates to try to curb inflation.

So yes, the market has cooled – booms don’t go on forever, however correctly priced property in the right locations should always attract attention – even in normal markets! Whilst activity is down a little on previous months this is only to be expected as some sellers are already casting one eye onto the new year market. However, if you are thinking of selling, why wait – that one buyer who may love your home could be out there now looking to buy. People looking to move may see the headlines on a national basis on what may be happening in the market place – yet local and regional variances will be in force and it is important to discuss your goals with your local, experienced and qualified agent.

Overall, October has remained steady with decent levels of enquires from our North Wales offices for selling and buying – whilst buyers are naturally more cautions now, this could be the best time to buy, to spot opportunities to find your dream home. If people are worried about the price of their home or if they should buy or not – REMEMBER In the 77 years since the end of the 2nd World War (1946) there are only 14 years when house prices gone down and 63 years when house prices gone up!

In any event, we trust that the market will continue to be “normal” which we believe is better for everyone.

Melfyn N Williams BSc (Hons) MRICS PPNAEA PPNAVA CPEA