New data from GetAgent.co.uk suggests renewed momentum in the housing market following the 31st March stamp duty deadline, as agents report a notable uplift in both buyer and seller activity.
In a recent survey of estate agents across the country, 33% said they had seen an increase in buyer enquiries since the deadline passed, compared with 49% who reported steady demand and 18% who had observed a decline.
The rise in seller interest was even more marked, with 38% of agents noting more instructions from homeowners looking to bring their properties to market.
However, while buyer and seller engagement appears to be growing, this is not yet translating into higher offer volumes. Only 10% of agents reported an increase in offers being made, with 51% seeing no change and 38% recording a fall.
PRICE SENSITIVITY
Agents also noted price sensitivity among sellers impacted by the stamp duty thresholds. Thirty-eight per cent reported asking price reductions from vendors with properties priced between £125,001 and £250,000 – now subject to a 2% stamp duty charge.
A further 18% said they had seen sellers adjust prices below the £125,000 threshold to attract stamp duty-free buyers.
PENT-UP DEMAND
Colby Short, Co-founder and Chief Executive of GetAgent.co.uk, says: “It’s fair to say that the recent stamp duty deadline wasn’t as impactful as the pandemic-era stamp duty holiday, but it still drove urgency among those hoping to complete in time for a saving.
“What we’re seeing now is a release of pent-up demand, as buyers and sellers who had delayed their plans re-enter the market.”
GROWING ENGAGEMENT
And he adds: “The early signs point to renewed momentum, which suggests any post-deadline slowdown is likely to be temporary.
“With growing engagement on both sides of the transaction, there’s good reason to expect a continuation of positive market conditions into the remainder of 2025.”
