Will The Property Market Get Stronger In 2026?

Is the Property Market About to Bounce Back?

After a few years of uncertainty, many homeowners and investors are now asking the same question — is the UK property market finally on the road to recovery?

With interest rates stabilising, buyer confidence improving, and more homes coming to market, signs suggest that 2025 could mark the start of a steady bounce-back for the housing market.

At Bates & Co, we’ve been closely monitoring local trends across Hailsham, Eastbourne, and Polegate, and we’re already seeing more activity, quicker sales, and stronger offers than this time last year.

The Market Slowdown – And What’s Changing Now

The property market cooled through 2023 and 2024 as rising interest rates and inflation reduced buyer demand. House prices dipped slightly, and many sellers chose to hold off listing their homes.

However, things have begun to shift. By mid-2025, the Bank of England has held rates steady for several months, inflation is easing, and confidence is creeping back.

Property portal data shows:

• Enquiries from buyers are up over 20% year-on-year nationally.
• Mortgage approvals have risen by more than 15% compared with late 2024.
• The average time to sell has shortened by several weeks in many parts of East Sussex.

These figures all point to renewed optimism — and a market that’s starting to move again.

Local Property Trends in East Sussex

Here in Hailsham, Eastbourne, and Polegate, we’re seeing early signs of momentum. Family homes, in particular, are attracting strong interest as buyers who paused during the rate hikes are returning to the market.

• Eastbourne is benefiting from coastal lifestyle appeal and good transport links, drawing both London commuters and retirees.
• Hailsham continues to attract families seeking better value for money, with average prices still competitive compared to the rest of East Sussex.
• Polegate is seeing growing demand from downsizers and first-time buyers due to its affordability and convenient rail connections.

This regional resilience suggests that while some areas of the UK are still finding their footing, East Sussex remains a solid, in-demand market.

Why 2025 Could Be the Perfect Time to Sell

If you’ve been holding off on selling, 2025 may present a strong opportunity to get ahead of rising competition.

Here’s why:

1. Stabilised mortgage rates – Buyers have more confidence to commit, knowing rates are unlikely to rise sharply.
2. Improving buyer demand – More viewings, faster sales, and increased offers are returning.
3. Limited housing supply – Quality homes are still in short supply, meaning sellers often achieve strong offers.
4. More realistic pricing – With sellers pricing sensibly, buyers feel motivated to act quickly.

Selling now — before more homeowners decide to enter the market — could help you secure a faster sale and a stronger price.

The Bates & Co Advantage

At Bates & Co, we combine local expertise with cutting-edge technology to help our clients achieve the best results in any market. Our approach includes:

• Accurate, data-driven valuations
• Professional photography and videography to make your property stand out
• AI-powered marketing that targets the right buyers 24/7
• Expert negotiation to maximise your sale price

As the market gathers pace, presentation and strategy make all the difference — and that’s where we excel.

What’s Next for the Property Market?

While no one can predict the future with certainty, most analysts agree that the worst of the slowdown is behind us. If mortgage rates remain stable and inflation continues to fall, we could see modest house price growth through 2026, particularly in high-demand regions like the South East.

Buyers are regaining confidence, sellers are returning to the market, and investors are once again exploring buy-to-let opportunities — all strong indicators of a gradual market recovery.

Thinking About Selling?

If you’re considering selling in Hailsham, Eastbourne, or Polegate, now could be the ideal moment to make your move.
Contact Bates & Co today for a free, no-obligation valuation and expert advice on how to position your property for success in this new, improving market.

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