Sales Market Update Summer 2026

16 July, 2026

The property market across Southampton remains active, although transaction levels are slightly below what we would typically expect for this time of year. Despite this, we continue to see a steady flow of new instructions and agreed sales, with the strongest demand coming from the more affordable end of the market, where first-time buyers remain particularly active. The upper end of the market has experienced a slower period following the increase in mortgage rates earlier this year. However, there are encouraging signs that confidence is beginning to return. Average fixed mortgage rates have fallen for consecutive months and are now at their lowest levels since March 2026, improving affordability for many buyers and increasing the range of mortgage products available.

While the market remains price-sensitive, the underlying demand for quality homes is still evident. As borrowing costs continue to ease, we anticipate renewed confidence from buyers across all price brackets. Historically, lower mortgage rates have translated into stronger levels of market activity, and should this trend continue, we expect momentum to build throughout the remainder of the year.

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