Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by Mortgage Solutions. Read the original article for full details.

High Costs and Slower Price Growth Reduce Home Moves, Connells Finds

UK homeowners are staying in their properties for longer periods, according to new analysis from Connells Group. The data shows that higher moving costs and reduced house price gains are contributing to a record low in short-term home moves.

Connells Group reported that only 5% of sellers in 2026 had owned their homes for fewer than three years, a decrease from 8% in 2016 and 16% in 2006. The proportion of sellers who had owned their home for fewer than five years also dropped to 14% this year, compared to 29% two decades ago. The average ownership period has increased to around 12 years, up from just over nine years a decade ago.

The analysis highlighted that rising stamp duty costs are a significant factor, with the typical cost for a mover in England at £5,950 in 2026, and up to £23,000 in London. Higher mortgage rates, along with legal, estate agency, and removal costs, have further impacted homeowners’ willingness to move. Slower house price growth means sellers are making smaller gains and have less equity for their next purchase, with some reluctant to sell at a loss.

A fifth of sellers in England and Wales who owned their home for up to five years sold at a loss in 2026, as did 23% of those selling within three years. These figures are higher than in 2006, when the respective proportions were 10% and 6%.

The trend is more pronounced in higher-value markets. Around 32% of homes bought for £1 million or more were found to be worth less than their purchase price, compared to 7.5% of homes purchased for less than £1 million. In London, only 9% of sellers had owned their home for up to five years, down from 27% in 2006. It is estimated that 21% of homes in the capital are worth less than the owner paid, compared to 7.9% nationally, excluding any value added from home improvements.

These findings are relevant for letting agents and inventory clerks, as reduced home moves may impact demand for rental properties and related services.