Why the Property Market Feels Slower Right Now – And What You Can Do About It
If you’ve noticed fewer homes coming onto the market recently,
or felt like there’s less interest when a property does get listed—you’re not alone.
Over the last few weeks, we’ve definitely seen things quieten down a bit. It’s not just our agency either; the same pattern is showing across the wider market. Spring usually brings a flurry of activity, but this year it’s felt a little off pace.
Now, I’ve been in estate agency for 25 years. I’ve seen the highs and the lows—booming markets, interest rate hikes, the 2008 crash, and even a global pandemic. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that the market never stays the same for long. But whether it’s a seller’s market or a slow patch like this, properties still sell and rent — you just have to think smart and sometimes outside the box.
What’s Actually Going On?
This isn’t a market crash. It’s more of a market shift. Properties are still moving—but the pace is slower. Buyers and tenants are more cautious, taking their time before committing. Higher mortgage rates and ongoing cost of living pressures mean people are thinking twice before making big moves.
So with less urgency out there, what can you do if you’re trying to sell or rent your property?
My Tried-and-Tested Tips to Beat the Market Slump
Here’s what I’d recommend—based on two and a half decades of experience and a lot of trial and error!
For Sellers:
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Nail the presentation
Make your home as inviting and clean as possible. Tidy gardens, fresh paint, and de-cluttered rooms work wonders. However, if you have a "doer upper" then market is as that, be honest, it is what it is! -
Make the marketing pop
Quality photography and a strong, engaging description help your property stand out online—where 99% of buyers are looking first. -
Price it realistically
One of the biggest mistakes I see in slower markets is overpricing. The longer a home sits unsold, the more buyers start to wonder what’s wrong with it. Over the years we have seen changes here, previously, people would have viewed with the intention of knocking the price down. More recently though, we have experienced, if buyers think that the price is wrong, they just wont come and look at the property -
Be flexible on viewings
The easier it is for someone to see your home, the better. Weekends, evenings, short notice—it all helps.
For Landlords:
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Price matters here too
Rent needs to be competitive. If your property isn’t getting enquiries, chances are tenants are finding better value elsewhere. In my view, if your property hasn't rented after 4 weeks then you have just lost a months worth of rent of what it would have rented for. Its best to make a price adjustment quickly to get people interested again -
Spruce it up
A quick refresh—cleaning, fixing, painting—can mean the difference between sitting empty or signing a tenancy. -
Offer tenant-friendly terms
Flexibility goes a long way. Being open to pets or shorter tenancies can make your property more appealing in a crowded rental market. -
Respond quickly
Tenants have options—if you or your agent aren’t quick to reply, they’ll move on to the next listing.
Already On the Market and Not Seeing Results?
You’re not stuck. If your property has been listed a while and isn’t getting much attention, I’d be happy to offer a second opinion—even if you’re already with another agent. Sometimes it’s a small tweak in presentation or pricing that makes all the difference.
We’ve helped many sellers and landlords in exactly that position. A fresh set of eyes and a new approach can turn things around quickly.
Let’s Talk Strategy...
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, especially in markets like this. But if there’s one thing I know for sure, it’s that with the right guidance, honest feedback, and a little creative thinking—your property can still stand out and move.
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