Hunters’ market report: house prices & demand autumn 2025
As we move into the heart of autumn, the 2025 housing market continues to show signs of resilience in some areas, while adjusting in others. Whether you’re planning to sell, buy, or just want to stay informed, understanding what’s happening in both the national and local property landscape can help you make confident decisions.
Drawing on the latest figures from trusted sources like Rightmove, Zoopla, Halifax and the Office for National Statistics, we explore how prices and demand are shifting this season, and what it means for homeowners and house-hunters across the areas served by Hunters branches.
How is the UK housing market performing this autumn?
After a slower summer in some regions, autumn has brought a steadier pace to the property market. According to the Rightmove House Price Index (October 2025), the average asking price across the UK is now £369,500 – up 0.6% on the previous month, but still around 1.4% lower than this time last year.
Zoopla’s latest index also highlights a modest recovery in buyer activity, with agreed sales up 12% compared to the same period in 2024. However, price growth remains flat in many regions, and buyers are generally taking a cautious approach, often negotiating on price or waiting for reductions.
Mortgage rates continue to influence buyer behaviour. While not at the peaks seen in 2023, average two-year and five-year fixed rates are hovering around 4.8% and 4.5% respectively, making affordability a key factor for many.
Key national trends:
- First-time buyer interest remains steady despite affordability pressures
- Family homes in commuter areas continue to perform well
- Cash buyers and downsizers are more active than a year ago
- Sellers must be realistic with pricing to secure viewings
What’s happening in our local areas?
Across Hunters’ network of offices, we’re seeing some clear patterns in different parts of the country. While the market is still price-sensitive, well-presented homes in popular areas are attracting attention quickly – especially where stock remains limited.
North and Midlands
In cities like Leeds, Sheffield and Nottingham, average sold prices have held up better than expected. Buyers here are focused on value for money, and terraced homes in suburban postcodes continue to be in demand.
- Leeds: Average sold price £217,000 (up 2.1% YoY)
- Nottingham: Buyer enquiries up 9% since August
- Sheffield: Homes taking an average of 33 days to go under offer
Tip: Thinking of selling before the end of the year? Book a free valuation with your local Hunters team.
South West and coastal areas
In towns such as Plymouth and Torquay, demand remains strong for homes with outdoor space and flexible living areas. However, higher interest rates have cooled the market slightly in holiday-let hotspots.
- Plymouth: Detached homes selling fastest, averaging 29 days
- Torquay: Listings up 7% as more sellers test the market
London and commuter belt
Buyer confidence has picked up slightly in outer London and the South East. With sellers becoming more flexible on price, more first-time buyers are returning to the market, particularly in boroughs such as Bromley and Waltham Forest.
- South London: Flat prices stable, houses seeing 1.8% uplift since summer
- Hertfordshire: Strong demand for 3-bed semis near schools and stations
What’s driving demand right now?
Buyer interest is always influenced by wider economic factors – and right now, several trends are at play:
- Mortgage rate adjustments
Slight easing in fixed-rate deals has tempted some buyers back, especially those who paused searches last year. Still, the affordability ceiling is shaping demand around value-led areas. - Shifting priorities
Many buyers are prioritising energy-efficient homes and flexible layouts that support home working. EPC ratings and broadband speed are frequently raised during viewings. - Regional relocations
Remote or hybrid work is still enabling many to move further afield. Semi-rural locations close to transport hubs are benefiting most. - Rental market pressures
Some tenants are choosing to buy sooner than planned, driven by steep rental increases in many parts of the UK.
What does this mean if you’re selling?
If you’re considering a move, the good news is that demand is there – but today’s buyers are doing their homework. Sellers who succeed are those who price competitively, prepare their home well, and respond quickly to interest.
Tips for sellers this autumn:
- Get an accurate valuation based on current local data
- Present your home neatly and consider minor repairs or decluttering
- Work with an agent who actively markets and follows up with buyers
- Consider a launch strategy to maximise exposure in the first 2 weeks
Homes in good condition, fairly priced and with strong curb appeal are still generating multiple viewings within the first 10 days.
Looking to sell soon? Start with a no-obligation valuation today.
What if you’re thinking of buying?
This autumn presents opportunities for buyers who are prepared, flexible and well-informed. While house prices are no longer rising rapidly, the market is competitive where homes are priced right.
Key things to keep in mind:
- Make sure your mortgage agreement in principle is ready
- Act quickly on homes you like – but don’t skip your due diligence
- Be aware of price drops and relistings – these could signal negotiable sellers
- Stay open-minded on location or property type to get more for your budget
If you’re unsure where to start, a local agent can help you understand which areas offer best value and what the buying timeline might look like.
Browse available properties here.
What’s next for the housing market?
Looking ahead, the rest of 2025 is expected to remain stable. Most forecasts from Nationwide and Zoopla suggest that prices will end the year broadly flat, with some areas seeing mild increases of up to 1%.
The market is unlikely to return to pre-2022 levels of competition anytime soon – but for both buyers and sellers, this offers space to make careful, informed moves.
Expect continued regional variation, as lifestyle, school catchments and connectivity play a growing role in shaping demand.
Final thoughts
The autumn property market is a balancing act. Buyers are looking for value, while sellers must be smart and realistic. That said, the right property in the right area is still turning heads quickly.
Whether you’re moving up, downsizing, relocating or just starting to think about your next step, we’re here to help.
Start your journey with Hunters – whether that’s booking a valuation or finding your next home. We’re ready when you are.
