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In today’s challenging media landscape, it can be difficult to grasp an understanding of the market. However, Elissia Heanue, a seasoned property expert with over 26 years experience, provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of affairs.
‘Over the past year, the market has experienced significant fluctuations. Typically, trends are predictable, marking ‘busy’ periods. For instance, when children return to school in September, we see a surge of new instructions & eager buyers aiming to relocate by Christmas. Similarly, as spring arrives & the weather improves, homeowners are motivated, leading to an influx of buyers & sellers.
However, last September presented a unique challenge that has influenced the market dynamics over the last six months. Speculation surrounding potential changes to Stamp Duty in certain price brackets led to a market stall. We had an abundance of properties available, yet potential buyers hesitated to make decisions. The Autumn budget in late November, which did not alter Stamp Duty, acted as a pivotal moment, reigniting buyer interest. This resulted in a pre-Christmas rush where many properties listed in September sold, often above their asking price and attracting multiple offers.
This momentum continued until geopolitical tensions involving Iran & Dubai cast uncertainty, causing the market to quieten significantly. During this period, banks withdrew several mortgage products, leading us to brace for what was anticipated to be a challenging spring market.
Contrary to expectations, the warmer weather before Easter revitalised the market remarkably. We are currently valuing more properties, increasing listings, &, crucially, witnessing successful sales at or above asking prices.
What has shifted? Conversations with clients and buyers indicate a growing frustration with inaction & an acknowledgment that there may never be a ‘perfect time’ to make a move. The reluctance to delay has led to a renewed determination to enter the market.
So, is it an opportune time to sell? Absolutely!’ Want to know more? Let’s get Elissia Heanue round!
14 May 2026
In today’s challenging media landscape, it can be difficult to grasp an understanding of the market. However, Elissia Heanue, a seasoned property expert with over 26 years experience, provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of affairs.
‘Over the past year, the market has experienced significant fluctuations. Typically, trends are predictable, marking ‘busy’ periods. For instance, when children return to school in September, we see a surge of new instructions & eager buyers aiming to relocate by Christmas. Similarly, as spring arrives & the weather improves, homeowners are motivated, leading to an influx of buyers & sellers.
However, last September presented a unique challenge that has influenced the market dynamics over the last six months. Speculation surrounding potential changes to Stamp Duty in certain price brackets led to a market stall. We had an abundance of properties available, yet potential buyers hesitated to make decisions. The Autumn budget in late November, which did not alter Stamp Duty, acted as a pivotal moment, reigniting buyer interest. This resulted in a pre-Christmas rush where many properties listed in September sold, often above their asking price and attracting multiple offers.
This momentum continued until geopolitical tensions involving Iran & Dubai cast uncertainty, causing the market to quieten significantly. During this period, banks withdrew several mortgage products, leading us to brace for what was anticipated to be a challenging spring market.
Contrary to expectations, the warmer weather before Easter revitalised the market remarkably. We are currently valuing more properties, increasing listings, &, crucially, witnessing successful sales at or above asking prices.
What has shifted? Conversations with clients and buyers indicate a growing frustration with inaction & an acknowledgment that there may never be a ‘perfect time’ to make a move. The reluctance to delay has led to a renewed determination to enter the market.
So, is it an opportune time to sell? Absolutely!’ Want to know more? Let’s get Elissia Heanue round!
About the Author...
Alan Cooke Sales and Lettings have been helping people find their dream homes for over 25 years. Founded in 1999 by our directors Jeremy Harris & Elissia Heanue, we specialise in residential sales ...
Read about Elissia