This is our last webinar for 2025.  Lots to cover in 2026, but for now, Very Merry Christmas to you and thank you for reading these blogs.

Insight for landlords, tenants, buyers and sellers

2025 So Far: A Year Defined by Adjustment, Not Decline

The first part of 2025 has not been about dramatic highs or sudden crashes. Instead, it has been a year of rebalancing, where the property market has continued to adapt to new realities around interest rates, regulation, affordability and lifestyle priorities.

For buyers and sellers, confidence has steadily improved. Transaction levels are healthier than many expected at the start of the year, driven by a growing acceptance that the market of 2021–2022 is not returning, but opportunity remains for those who price, present and plan correctly.

In lettings, demand has remained exceptionally strong across most towns and villages. Tenant demand continues to outweigh supply, particularly for well-presented homes priced sensibly. While rental growth has slowed from the sharp rises of previous years, rents remain historically high, and void periods are minimal when properties are managed properly.

Landlords, meanwhile, have faced continued pressure, from legislation, compliance costs and taxation, but those who have adapted their portfolios and expectations are still seeing solid long-term returns, especially in family homes and well-located properties.

Lettings in 2025: Strong Demand, Smarter Decisions

The lettings market in 2025 has been defined by three key themes:

1. Demand remains relentless
Across Essex and Suffolk, tenant demand has continued to outstrip supply. Quality homes, particularly houses rather than flats, are often let quickly, with multiple applicants.

2. Tenants are more selective
While demand is high, tenants are increasingly value-driven. Condition, energy efficiency and realistic pricing now matter more than ever.

3. Professional management is no longer optional
With ongoing legislative change and increasing tenant expectations, more landlords are turning to fully managed services to protect their investment and reduce risk.

Sales in 2025: A Market That Rewards Realism

For buyers and sellers alike, 2025 has been a year where strategy matters.

• Sellers who price realistically from day one is achieving strong interest and smoother sales.
• Over-ambitious pricing is being corrected quickly by the market.
• Buyers are more confident negotiating, but good homes still attract competition.

Lifestyle moves, upsizing, downsizing, relocating for schools or work, have been the dominant driver, rather than speculative buying.

Looking Ahead to 2026: What We Expect

For Lettings & Landlords

2026 is likely to be another landlord-friendly year, if approached correctly.

• Rental demand will remain high, supported by affordability challenges in the sales market and ongoing population growth.
• Further regulation is expected, increasing the importance of compliance and expert advice.
• Landlords who invest in energy efficiency and long-term quality will outperform those who don’t.
• Portfolio consolidation will continue, with fewer accidental landlords and more committed, professional investors.

👉 Prediction: The best-performing landlords in 2026 will be those who treat property as a long-term business, not a short-term yield play.

For Buyers

• Gradual improvements in mortgage affordability are likely to bring more buyers into the market.
• Competition will increase for well-priced, well-located homes.
• First-time buyers will remain active, particularly where local knowledge and realistic guidance are available.

👉 Prediction: 2026 will favour buyers who act decisively rather than waiting for a “perfect” market that never arrives.

For Sellers

• The importance of presentation, pricing and professional marketing will only grow.
• Homes that are move-in ready will continue to command a premium.
• Local expertise will be critical in navigating micro-market differences between towns, villages and even individual streets.

👉 Prediction: Sellers who work with agents offering strong local insight, not generic advice, will achieve better outcomes.

Final Thought: Confidence Comes from Clarity

As we move through the remainder of 2025 and into 2026, the most successful landlords, buyers and sellers will be those who seek clear, honest advice grounded in local market knowledge.

The property market isn’t standing still, but it is rewarding those who understand how it has changed.

At Boydens, that understanding comes from decades of experience, deep roots in the communities we serve, and a commitment to guiding clients through every stage of their property journey with clarity and confidence.

For tailored advice on lettings, sales or investment planning as we head into 2026, speak to your local Boydens team.