In response to the HMRC property transactions data published today which showed that on a seasonally adjusted estimate of the number of UK residential transactions in August 2026 is 95,220, 2% lower than August 2025 and 1% lower than July 2026.
Nick Leeming, Chairman of Jackson-Stops, comments:
"August’s figures suggest the market is holding its course after a quieter summer. People moving for work, family or a change in circumstances continue to underpin transactions. Mortgage approvals remained subdued in yesterday’s Bank of England report, suggesting transaction volumes may stay at around this level over the coming months.
“For sellers, the price at which a home comes to market matters. An asking price grounded in recent local sales data can attract serious buyers and create competition, giving owners the best chance of realising the full value of their property. Buyers have more choice, but well-presented homes priced accurately are still selling quickly.
“As we approach the Budget, we hope speculation about property tax does not slow decisions in higher-value markets as it did last autumn. Reports that the high-value council tax threshold could be lowered to £1.5 million remain speculation, but clarity would help buyers and sellers plan with confidence.
