Welsh Property Market Update - January 2026
The first housing market update of 2026 brings renewed optimism across the UK, and Wales is very much part of this positive start. Rightmove’s January House Price Index reveals a strong rebound in market activity following a quieter end to 2025, with buyers and sellers across Wales returning to the market with confidence.
A Confident Start to the Year for Welsh Sellers
Across the UK, sellers have returned to the market with renewed confidence, encouraged by stabilising mortgage rates and increased buyer demand. Wales reflects this trend, with more homes coming to market after the typical festive slowdown.
Rightmove reports that nationally:
- Newly listed homes surged by 81% in the two weeks after Christmas
- Buyer demand rose by 57% over the same period
This "Boxing Day Bounce" was also felt strongly in Wales, where a busy start to January suggests many homeowners are bringing forward their 2026 moving plans. For sellers, this means increased visibility as motivated buyers begin their property search early in the year.
Improving Affordability Supports Welsh Buyers
One of the most encouraging developments for Welsh home‑movers is the improvement in mortgage affordability.
Rightmove’s mortgage tracker shows:
- The average two‑year fixed rate has dropped to 4.29%, the lowest since before the 2022 mini‑Budget
- Some lenders are offering rates as low as 3.47% for buyers with larger deposits
This is particularly good news for first-time buyers in Wales, where average asking prices typically sit below UK averages, meaning improved affordability has an even more meaningful impact. Rightmove estimates that typical home-movers nationwide are saving over £100 a month on mortgage costs compared with last year.
Looking Ahead to the Spring Market
Traditionally, spring is the busiest period in the Welsh property calendar and early indicators suggest the momentum building in January will continue.
Rightmove experts note strong early signs:
- Returning buyer confidence
- Stabilising mortgage rates
- Increased stock for buyers to choose from
Combined, these factors point towards a more balanced, active market heading into spring. For movers in Wales, whether buying or selling, now is a key window to start preparing for the months ahead.
What This Means for Sellers in Wales
We’re already seeing increased activity across our branches. If you’re considering selling soon, the current conditions offer several advantages:
- Strong seasonal demand as buyers resume their searches
- Improved affordability, enabling more buyers to progress
- Greater competition among sellers, making expert pricing advice more valuable than ever
If you are considering selling the property market is expected to remain active so there is still time to capitalise on the renewed buyer activity. Now is a great time for sellers to take action and getting ahead with their 2026 moves, if you would like to find out more about selling with us and to book your FREE market appraisal, please contact your local branch
You can even get a free instant valuation of your property online on our website 24 hours a day.
Source: PowerPoint Presentation
