Buyers are Adapting, not Waiting
One of the most encouraging findings from the report is that affordability confidence remains resilient, with around 66% of active buyers confident they will be able to fund their next purchase. Buyers have also largely adapted to today’s mortgage rates.
We’ve seen a similar shift locally. Rather than delaying their move because of unrealistic expectations, many buyers are making decisions based on their personal circumstances. Whether it’s upsizing for a growing family, downsizing or relocating for work, people are recognising that life doesn’t wait for the ‘perfect’ market.
Accurate pricing is Proving More Important
Perhaps the biggest takeaway from the latest PSI is that expectations around house price growth are becoming more measured. The number of people expecting prices to rise over the next 12 months has fallen to 31%, down by 20% since September 2025. This suggests that buyers and sellers are becoming more aligned with the steady momentum of the current market.
This reflects what we’ve been advising our clients for some time. Properties that are launched at the right asking price continue to attract good levels of interest and achieve successful sales. However, properties that come to the market with over-zealous pricing are often taking longer to sell and are more likely to require price reductions before finding a buyer.
Accurate pricing has become one of the most important factors in achieving a successful move.
Activity Remains Healthy
Despite ongoing economic headlines, the property market has remained remarkably resilient. The OnTheMarket research suggests buyers have become more pragmatic and are continuing with their plans despite wider uncertainty.
That’s certainly what we’re experiencing. Viewing levels remain positive, committed buyers are continuing to register, and motivated sellers are successfully moving when their properties are marketed effectively.
There is naturally more choice for buyers right now, but sellers who price sensibly continue to achieve strong results, enabling many to move onto to their next home.
Confidence is Helping to Underpin the Market
Although discussions around inflation and interest rates continue, the latest PSI suggests these factors are no longer creating the uncertainty they once did. Instead, many buyers and sellers have factored current borrowing costs into their plans and are moving forward with confidence.
Locally, we’re finding exactly the same. Serious buyers remain motivated, chains are progressing, and the market is functioning steadily rather than experiencing the peaks and troughs seen over the past few years.
Looking Ahead
The latest OnTheMarket findings reinforce what we’ve been seeing throughout 2026; this is a market driven by realistic expectations rather than speculation.
For anyone considering a move, the key message is simple. Buyers remain active, confidence is holding up well, and correctly priced properties continue to attract interest. Whilst the market may look different from the more dramatic conditions of previous years, it remains one where well-informed buyers and sellers can move successfully with the right advice and guidance.
If you’re looking to buy a home in North Hampshire or Surrey, we have a superb range of properties available in our portfolio, here. If you’re a homeowner looking to sell in our local areas, feel free to get in touch with your nearest office or to book a free, no-obligation valuation here.
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