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

UK Property Offers Drop 6% as Buyers Focus on Mid-Market Homes

The proportion of UK properties securing offers within six months has declined by 6 percentage points compared to the same period last year, according to Connells Group data. In January 2026, 52% of homes listed received an offer within six months, down from 58% in January 2025.

The share of properties receiving offers within the first month also fell, from 42% to 38% year-on-year. This trend highlights a more selective approach among buyers in the current market.

Mid-Market Properties Remain in Demand

Two and three-bedroom homes continue to attract the strongest buyer interest, with 55% and 53% respectively securing offers. These property types are typically favoured by first-time buyers and growing families, whose moves are often driven by necessity.

In contrast, five-bedroom properties have seen a sharper decline in demand. The proportion of these homes receiving offers dropped from 59% in January 2025 to 41% in January 2026. This slowdown at the upper end of the market is linked to the impact of elevated mortgage costs on buyers needing larger loans.

Regional and Property Type Variations

Eight of the ten fastest-moving local housing markets are in the Midlands and North, with Bury recording the quickest transaction times. Scotland remains the fastest regional market, with 68% of homes listed in January securing an offer within six months.

Leasehold properties have experienced a more pronounced decline than the overall market, with the share receiving offers falling from 57% to 48% year-on-year. This may reflect increased buyer caution regarding leasehold terms and ground rent arrangements.

Market Implications for Agents and Clerks

The data suggests growing price sensitivity among buyers as mortgage costs remain elevated. The divergence between mid-market and premium properties indicates that affordability constraints are primarily affecting higher price points. Regional differences in market activity, with stronger performance in the Midlands and North, may reflect relative affordability compared to southern regions.