What the OnTheMarket Survey Reveals
According to OnTheMarket’s post-Budget “Property Sentiment Index,” 50% of buyers/sellers/renters say the Budget had no impact on their moving or investment plans. Perhaps surprisingly, 6% even say they’re accelerating their plans.
Among the 44% whose plans were affected, only 15% reported delays or cancellations, while just a small fraction formally pulled the plug.
As for attitudes toward the wider market: around a third expect a negative impact, 30% expect no material change, and 16% expect a positive outcome.
Notably, even policies many feared, such as the new higher-value property surcharge (often called the “Mansion Tax” ) on homes over £2 million, appear to be having little effect on consumer behaviour. Just 2% of the homeowners surveyed cited the surcharge as their reason for cancelling plans, and the majority saw it as neutral in their decision-making.
As we predicted here at Mackenzie Smith, having the Budget now in place creates a clarity, encouraging many would-be movers into action.
Why This Signals Hope for Stability & Growth
Firstly, the fact that half of active property-seekers remain on track suggests that the market hasn’t been thrown into chaos. Instead, the Budget seems to have removed much of the uncertainty that had suppressed activity in the run-up to the announcement. It’s a real indicator that many buyers and sellers who pressed pause on their plans may soon return to the property market.
Secondly, the comparatively low proportion of cancellations or long-term confirms that the fundamentals of the property market remain resilient. Whether for owner-occupiers or investors, people appear ready to move forward rather than shelving their plans.
Thirdly, whilst sentiment is cautiously optimistic rather than exuberant, that kind of measured confidence may be exactly what the market needs to steadily move forward.
What It Means for Buyers, Sellers and Investors
For homebuyers, the survey lends weight to the idea that the Budget lull will prove short-lived. If you’ve been waiting to buy, the new year is likely to offer opportunity.
For sellers, with many buyers and movers now reassured, 2026 may bring a renewed wave of listings and transactions. Sellers could benefit from pent-up demand; in particular, those who held back during the Budget uncertainty may find the early part of the year favourable.
For investors and landlords, the relatively stable sentiment suggests that property investment remains viable, especially as long as mortgage costs remain competitive. And with clarity on taxation (versus speculation), investors may find it easier to plan ahead.
A Word of Caution
It’s fair to say that not everyone believes that the effects of the budget will be positive and some remain undecided. It is suggested that interest rates and cost-of-living pressures, could influence house price growth. Just because confidence is returning doesn’t guarantee a surge in house-price inflation. What it is important to consider, is that if you’re a home mover selling their home for less, you’re probably paying less for your next home, too.
Summary
In many ways, OnTheMarket’s survey confirms what we suspected. Whilst 2025’s Budget stirred jitters, the fundamental appetite for homeownership, moving and investment remains intact. With so many people taking the next steps in the property journey, the pause appears to have been temporary and a return to business as usual.
If you’re a homeowner thinking of selling, deciding on your next step as a landlord or an investor, feel free to contact your local Mackenzie Smith office for property advice. Alternatively, you can book a free, no-obligation valuation here.
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