Recent findings from property experts suggests that the UK housing market may be on the verge of a strong recovery in 2026. After a period of slower activity in the last year, driven in part by higher interest rates and affordability challenges, several indicators point to renewed momentum - particularly among first-time buyers.
According to industry analysts, a cut in the base interest rate to 3.75% in December is expected to improve market sentiment and help more people secure mortgage financing. Property platforms have reported that first-time buyers could account for up to 40% of future home purchases, as more affordable borrowing costs encourage new entrants to the market. However, conditions will not be the same across all Great Britain - with some areas poised to benefit more than others. Southern regions continue to face affordability pressures, even as activity picks up.
For many buyers and sellers, these predictions are encouraging. But they also raise important practical and legal questions about timing, risk, contracts and property rights. And this in when property experts can make a real difference.
Why 2026 could feel different for the housing market:
Lower mortgage rates and increased confidence
A fall in the base interest rate often leads to lower mortgage costs, which in turn boosts buyer confidence. First-time buyers, who may have been priced out or discouraged over the past few years, could find themselves in a better position to step onto the property ladder. This potential increase in demand may lead to more activity in both sales and purchases across many regions.
Regional variations will matter
Not all local markets respond in the same way. Experts suggest that while some areas may see a significant up in listings and sales, others may lag behind due to persistent affordability issues. For buyers and sellers alike, understanding local dynamics is essential to making informed decisions.
How our Conveyancing and Residential Property team can help
As the housing market evolves, having the right legal guidance becomes increasingly important. Whether you’re a first-time buyer preparing to make your first offer, a homeowner moving up the property ladder, or someone looking to sell or remortgage, our experienced Conveyancing and Residential Property team can support you every step of the way.
How can we help?
- Expert guidance for first-time buyers
For those entering the market for the first time, the legal process can feel very complex. Our team will explain each stage of conveyancing clearly - from reviewing the contract and title deeds to handling searches and exchange of contracts - so you can proceed with confidence.
- Smooth transactions for sellers
If you’re planning to sell, timely and accurate legal advice can help you avoid delays or costly pitfalls. We draft and review key documentation, advise on disclosures and conditions, and ensure all legal requirements are met to help your sale progress efficiently.
- Supporting remortgages and re-mortgaging decisions
With changes in interest rates potentially encouraging homeowners to reassess their financing, our team can assist with remortgage transactions, ensuring your lender’s legal requirements are handled professionally and without unnecessary delay.
- Navigating regional variations
We understand that the property market doesn’t behave the same way everywhere. Local knowledge and experience in a range of regional conveyancing matters means we can provide insight tailored to your specific area and circumstances.
- Clear, practical communication
Moving home is one of the most significant financial decisions most people make. Our priority is to make the legal process straightforward, keep you informed at every stage, and support a term of positive engagement with your property transaction.
What first-time buyers can expect from the conveyancing process
For many first-time buyers, conveyancing can feel unfamiliar and overwhelming. At Coles Miller, our aim is to make the process as clear, transparent and stress-free as possible. Click here for more details on conveyancing first steps.
Once your offer has been accepted, your conveyancing solicitor will begin the legal work required to transfer ownership of the property to you. This includes reviewing the contract and title documents, raising enquiries with the seller’s solicitor, and carrying out searches with the local authority and other relevant bodies. These searches help identify issues such as planning restrictions, rights of way, flood risk or future development that could affect the property.
Your solicitor will also liaise with your mortgage lender to ensure their legal requirements are met and explain any conditions attached to your mortgage offer. Throughout the process, you will receive clear advice on what you are committing to before you exchange contracts.
Exchange of contracts is the point at which the transaction becomes legally binding. Your solicitor will guide you through this stage carefully, ensuring you understand the financial and legal implications. Completion then follows, at which point you receive the keys and ownership officially transfers to you.
For first-time buyers, having a solicitor who takes the time to explain each step, answer questions and keep you informed can make all the difference.
Get ready for the 2026 housing market
Whether you’re planning your first purchase, selling your family home or exploring your options in the months ahead, now is a good time to get your legal affairs in order.
Coles Miller Associate Solicitor Laura Hall
Her specialisms include buying and selling houses, remortgage work and transfers of equity.
Laura has an excellent rapport with local estate agents, brokers and other property professionals – enabling her to progress your property purchase more smoothly.
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