Grange Mortgages have released their latest Residential Property review that reveals how the UK housing market showed renewed momentum in May 2025, with Rightmove reporting the busiest month for agreed property sales since March 2022.

After a rush to beat April’s Stamp Duty changes and a short-lived dip in buyer demand, activity bounced back strongly. Sales agreed rose 6% year-on-year across Great Britain, with Wales leading at +15% and London showing a modest +1% rise.

May 2025 also marked the most active May since 2021, pointing to growing confidence among buyers and sellers who are adjusting to a changing tax and borrowing environment. Rightmove data suggests that buyers are increasingly willing to proceed, despite higher costs—indicating that demand for homes remains resilient.

Meanwhile, in Prime Central London, average house prices fell by 2.2% year-on-year—the sharpest drop since August 2024—according to Knight Frank. The slowdown is being linked to changes in the non-dom tax regime and higher Stamp Duty on additional properties. In contrast, Prime Outer London has remained steadier, with prices rising 1.1%, driven more by domestic buyers.

In wider policy news, Chancellor Rachel Reeves has announced a £39bn investment in affordable and social housing over the next decade—described as the biggest cash injection in 50 years. Analysts at JLL believe this could help deliver up to 500,000 new homes.

Yopa also reports that properties near major UK music festivals come at a premium, with average prices around 41% higher than the national average. The LS22 postcode near Leeds Festival tops the list, with house prices 91% above the city average.

To read the full report and to find out the average price by region click here.

For information on Police Mutual and Grange Mortgages, visit our Mortgages page.

Correct as of 18 June 2025. Always seek personalised financial advice before making property decisions.

After a prolonged period of uncertainty, the UK housing market is showing clear signs of recovery. A surge in homes for sale, increased buyer confidence, steady price growth, and improved mortgage affordability have all contributed to what many are calling a mini property boom.

More Homes on the Market, More Buyers Stepping In

According to Zoopla’s House Price Index (May 2025), the number of homes listed for sale is up 13% compared to this time last year. This increased supply is giving prospective buyers more choice and breathing fresh life into the market. Crucially, this rise in listings has also translated into activity: agreed sales are up by 6% year-on-year, reaching their highest level since 2021.

With more sellers entering the market and more buyers ready to move, this increase in housing stock has helped restore a sense of balance. Buyers are currently negotiating deals around 3% below the asking price, suggesting that sellers are willing to be flexible to get deals done, a win for those looking to secure good value.

House Prices Rising, But at a Manageable Pace

Nationally, house prices have risen by an average of 1.6% over the past year, with the average UK property now valued at £268,250, according to Zoopla. Importantly, this moderate growth has kept homes within reach for many buyers, especially compared to the double-digit increases seen during the post-pandemic surge.

Price trends do vary by region. Northern areas like Blackburn and Belfast have seen growth of over 5%, driven by local demand and lower relative starting prices. Conversely, southern coastal cities such as Bournemouth and Brighton have experienced small price declines, likely due to a higher number of properties being brought to market.

According to the Office for National Statistics, the average house price in West Northamptonshire reached £295,000 in March 2025, marking a 7.0% increase from March 2024. This growth aligns with the broader East Midlands region, which also saw a 7.0% rise during the same period.

Mortgage Rates Drop and Affordability Improves

Improved affordability is another factor helping to fuel renewed buyer interest. The Bank of England cut the base rate to 4.25% in May 2025, easing the pressure on borrowers and bringing down mortgage rates across the board.

According to Morningstar UK, the most competitive two-year and five-year fixed-rate mortgages are now available at 3.75% and 3.83%, respectively — down significantly from the 5–6% range seen in 2023.

As noted by The Guardian, some lenders have also relaxed their affordability criteria, meaning buyers can now borrow more than in recent years. This has opened the door particularly for first-time buyers and second-steppers looking to move up the property ladder.

Market Outlook for the Remainder of 2025

All indicators suggest this trend is set to continue through the second half of the year. Zoopla projects a 5% increase in completed sales and a 2% rise in average prices by the end of 2025, underpinned by growing market confidence and more accessible mortgage deals.

Meanwhile, The Times reports that UK house sales are now at their highest level since the lockdown-induced boom, suggesting that the recovery is not just anecdotal.

Is Now the Right Time to Move?

With more homes to choose from, competitive mortgage rates, and steady house price growth, the current market offers real opportunities for movers.

Daniel Mumford, Managing Director at Grange Mortgages, commented:
“With increased property listings, stable pricing, and improved mortgage affordability, there’s a unique window of opportunity for buyers and movers. The current market conditions are among the most favourable we’ve seen in recent years, making it an excellent time to consider your next property move.”

For more information on the Police Mutual Fee-Free Mortgage Advice Service, provided by Grange Mortgages click here.