Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by PropertyWire. Read the original article for full details.
Housing Supply Remains Stable as Buyers Delay Commitments
Property buyers in England and Wales are taking longer to commit to purchases, despite steady levels of housing supply, according to Landmark Information Group data for the second quarter of 2026. The research shows that listing volumes across England and Wales were only 1% lower than the same period in 2025, while demand showed signs of recovery towards the end of the quarter.
Listing volumes remained relatively stable from April to June 2026. Compared to April 2025, new listings increased by 1%, but June 2026 volumes were 3% below those of June 2025. Sold subject to contract volumes fell 7% year-on-year, though June 2026 saw the highest monthly figure for new conveyancing instructions so far this year, suggesting a possible strengthening in demand.
In Scotland, listing volumes declined 9% year-on-year, and sold subject to missives volumes were down 6% compared to the same period in 2025. Completion volumes in Scotland rose 23% annually, which Landmark attributes to comparisons with the post-Stamp Duty deadline slowdown after March 2025.
The data indicates that affordability concerns and geopolitical uncertainty are contributing to subdued transaction volumes. Sellers are increasingly reducing asking prices to attract buyers, and the extended decision-making period for buyers contrasts with conditions in London’s rental market, where institutional investment remains active.
The market is adjusting to higher mortgage rates and political uncertainty following the end of the Stamp Duty incentive period in March 2025. While affordability challenges persist, especially for first-time buyers, the increase in conveyancing instructions during June may indicate stabilising transaction activity. The combination of steady supply and cautious demand has created conditions that favour buyers, with increased choice and downward pressure on asking prices.
Source: PropertyWire