In response to today’s HMRC Property Transactions Data which showed that the number of UK residential transactions in May 2025 was 81,470, some 12% lower than May 2024, but 25% higher than April 2025, Nick Leeming, Chairman of Jackson-Stops, comments:

“The rate of activity in May demonstrates the property market’s endurance in the face of uncertainty. Despite external pressures, both on the economy and buyer affordability, the market continues to see properties selling.

“While April saw a drop off in completions in direct response to the heightened activity levels over March, if we look further back, the current market remains up on two years ago. This points to the cyclical nature of the property market and number of transactions that are driven by buyers' life stages, whether that’s upsizing to accommodate a growing family or downsizing to help manage ongoing property maintenance.

“In the current market, it’s essential for sellers to remember there is always demand for a sensibly priced property. At a time when transactions on average are now taking more than 200 days to complete, sellers looking for a quick sale need to keep the realities of their local market front of mind.”