Sales and lettings activity remain steady in July, Propertymark finds
Nathan Emerson said: “The rise in prospective buyer registrations, alongside a modest increase in sales agreed and new instructions, suggests there is still underlying demand in the sales market."
Sales and lettings activity remained steady in July 2026, according to Propertymark’s latest Housing Insight Report.
The average number of prospective buyers registered at each member branch rose to 75.
Member branches listed an average of 10.9 homes for sale during the month.
Most properties sold below their asking price, while transactions continued to take longer to complete.
Member branches agreed an average of 8.32 new tenancies in July.
Rental demand outstripped supply, with an average of nine applicants for each available property.
Nathan Emerson, chief executive of Propertymark, said: “July’s figures present a market with encouraging signs of activity, but one that remains challenging for both agents and their clients.
“The rise in prospective buyer registrations, alongside a modest increase in sales agreed and new instructions, suggests there is still underlying demand in the sales market.
“However, with stock levels continuing to build and the majority of properties achieving below asking price, the balance of power remains firmly with buyers.”
Emerson added: “Agents are also reporting a more cautious approach from consumers, with realistic pricing increasingly critical to securing a sale.
“The fact that more than half of agents are seeing most sales take 17 weeks or more from acceptance to exchange is particularly concerning.
“Delays in the conveyancing process continue to create uncertainty and can undermine confidence in an otherwise functioning market.”
He said: “In lettings, the fundamental imbalance between supply and demand remains stark, with nine applicants for every available property.
“While rental growth appears to be moderating, the continued pressure on available stock means affordability remains a significant issue for renters.
“The increase in rental arrears also reinforces the need for policymakers to consider the wider financial pressures facing households.”
He added: “Overall, July demonstrates that there is activity in the market, but activity should not be confused with ease.
“The industry needs greater certainty, more housing supply and a smoother transaction process if we are to turn cautious demand into sustainable market growth.”
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