The housing market is closing the year with noticeable shifts in pace and tone. Data from September still dominates headlines, but the reality in recent weeks is an even firmer move towards a buyer-friendly environment.
In Purley, Croydon & Greater London, sellers are still active as the UK housing market continues to rebalance this November. The pace of new listings has slowed slightly, while buyer registrations and viewings have held up - signalling strong interest. Sellers who are preparing their homes well and setting competitive prices, are securing asking price and above asking price offers.
Transaction times remain a sticking point. Around a third of sales are still taking 17 weeks or more to complete, and this can lead to breakdowns in the chain - a frustration for everyone involved. The underlying sentiment remains stable, and well-positioned homes priced correctly continue to attract attention.
The message for November? A calmer market doesn’t mean a quiet one. Buyers are active and sellers can succeed with a clear strategy. Preparation, pricing, and patience are the current watchwords for those looking to make a move before the year ends. The right agent, right price and right marketing strategy is currently achieving the required results.
That's where Shinerocks can help! Call 020 8660 2010 or email enquiries@shinerocks.co.uk to speak with our team.
Budget Watch
After weeks of speculation, the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves has finally revealed her plans! The latest Budget sets out a rise of 2% across the basic, higher, and additional bands of tax on property income from April 2027. Once in place, the rates will move to 22%, 42%, and 47%.
A new High Value Council Tax Surcharge is lined up for April 2028. It will apply to homes worth more than £2 million, with annual charges running between £2,500 and £7,500 depending on the property’s band.
Even with this in mind, average UK property values are still projected to climb from around £260,000 in 2024 to just below £305,000 by 2030. From 2026 onwards, annual growth is expected to hover at roughly 2.5%, echoing general wage growth.
It may not feel like the ideal season to house-hunt, but winter offers some real advantages. Competition is lower, especially in the run-up to Christmas.
You’ll see homes at their most ‘honest’ in the winter - no sunlight tricks or blooming gardens to hide any flaws.
Energy efficiency becomes clearer too. You’ll get a true sense of warmth, insulation, and comfort. And neighbourhoods reveal their real character, minus the summer bustle.
Even completions may move more quickly, with fewer sales clogging up the system. And if you don’t find your new place before Christmas, remember the Boxing Day boom: 26th December typically sees a surge in new listings.
In short, winter might just be the hidden gem of the home-buying calendar!
Buyers in Purley, Croydon & Greater London: You’re in a strong position with more homes available, this is a good time to act.
Sellers: The market is moving, but you need to be sharp. Price realistically and prep thoroughly.
Shinerocks is here to support your next move in Purley, Croydon & Greater London. Call 020 8660 2010 or email enquiries@shinerocks.co.uk to speak with our team.
Note: The information in this article is based on data as of September /October 2025 and may change. Always seek professional advice for specific circumstances.
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