Zoopla Reports Return of Buyer Confidence

Zoopla’s latest House Price Index for January 2026 points to a housing market that is steadily regaining its footing.

Indicators are that after a subdued end to 2025, confidence is returning, buyer demand is stabilising and improved mortgage rates are leading more people to re-engage with their moving plans.

According to Zoopla, buyer demand is now tracking broadly in line with 2024 levels. This follows a period of hesitation towards the end of last year, when uncertainty around the Autumn Budget caused many households to pause decisions. With that uncertainty now largely gone, and fixed average mortgage rates improving, motivation to move is strengthening.

According to Zoopla, our local areas continue to see healthy levels of buyer demand, although analysis shows that buyers remain price-sensitive. Market conditions are increasingly defined at a local level, with affordability and choice playing a key role in shaping outcomes. While many homeowners are sitting on substantial capital gains, achieving a successful sale now depends on aligning expectations with what today’s buyers are realistically prepared to pay and factoring this carefully into plans for their next move.

One of the most notable shifts highlighted in the report is the increase in housing supply. More homes for sale are coming to market, giving buyers greater choice. For buyers, this is welcome news. For sellers, it reinforces the importance of realistic pricing and strong presentation.

Zoopla also notes that while the opening weeks of 2026 have been positive, demand has not reached the exceptional levels seen at the start of 2025, when buyers were racing to beat the stamp duty deadline. Instead, the market is settling into a more measured, sustainable rhythm.

From our perspective as estate agents, this creates a market defined less by urgency and more by competition. Where choice increases, buyers become more selective. Homes that are priced accurately and presented well continue to attract interest, while those that miss the mark risk losing momentum.

As confidence returns and delayed movers re-enter the market, 2026 is shaping up to be a year where strategy matters. Understanding local demand, setting the right price from day one, and adapting to changing conditions will be key for anyone serious about moving.

If you’re considering selling or would like to understand how these trends are playing out locally, we’d be very happy to help. Feel free to get in touch with your nearest office.

Share this article