This blog follows the property market in Northampton with a particular emphasis on buy-to-let. On here you'll find general commentary about the market, plus properties that may represent decent buys. I own a large estate agency in Northampton and am myself a landlord with an established portfolio. If you're looking to invest, but are unsure what will work best, I'm happy to offer a (free) second opinion. If you have a property to sell I can help with that too! Email richard.baker@belvoir.co.uk

Friday, 31 January 2025

Rental Market Squeeze: Why Fewer UK Homes Are Available to Rent

 


Despite the overall number of rental properties in the UK remaining relatively stable—around 4.87 million in 2024 compared to 4.85 million in 2017—the availability of rental homes on the market has declined sharply in many regions. This isn't because landlords are exiting en masse, but because fewer properties are being listed as tenants are staying put longer. With rents rising due to high demand and limited supply, tenants are less inclined to move, reducing turnover and leaving fewer options for those entering the market.

Here’s how the regions compare in terms of change in rental availability:

  • North East: Down 49.3%
  • Wales: Down 41.3%
  • South East: Down 24.5%
  • East Anglia: Down 19.2%
  • North West: Down 18.3%
  • Yorkshire & the Humber: Down 18.1%
  • East Midlands: Down 13.1%
  • South West: Down 12.5%
  • West Midlands: Down 7.7%
  • London: Down 7.6%
  • Scotland: Up 6.1%
  • Northern Ireland: Up 2.5% 

Interestingly, regions like Scotland and Northern Ireland have bucked the trend, experiencing slight increases in rental availability.

This trend reflects a wider issue: the rate at which properties are coming to market for rent is slowing, even as the total stock grows marginally. For Northampton landlords, this poses a challenge in balancing tenant demand and landlord expectations. The market must adapt to ensure mobility and opportunity for renters in the face of these shifts.

If you are a Northampton landlord and want some advice and opinion on how this will affect the local Buy-to-Let property market, don’t hesitate to contact us on 01604 626 626 or northampton@belvoir.co.uk.


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Wednesday, 29 January 2025

How Long Does a Property Spend on the Market in Northampton?

 


When browsing property portals (Rightmove, Zoopla or On The Market), many people wonder why some Northampton homes linger on the market far longer than others. It’s easy to assume there’s something wrong - an issue with the property, an inflated asking price, or a lack of interest - but that’s not always the case. Sometimes, it’s simply down to poor marketing, unrealistic expectations, or even a change in the seller's circumstances.

If you’re on the other side of the fence, currently selling a home in Northampton, you’ve likely asked yourself: “Why is this taking so long?” Whether your property seems to be lingering on the market or you’re struggling to find that dream home, delays are often a natural byproduct of the property market’s ebbs and flows.

But how long is too long to wait before something changes?

Let’s face it, when your home stays unsold longer than expected, frustration sets in. Is it the market? Is the price too high? Or is there simply less demand for your type of property? If your home sits at the premium end of the market, delays are par for the course. Higher value properties have fewer buyers, meaning patience is a virtue - but even so, the right strategy can make all the difference.

One of the biggest culprits for a slow sale is overpricing. Even if you’re happy to accept a lower offer, an unrealistic asking price can stop potential buyers from even booking a viewing.

First impressions matter, and buyers compare everything they see online before deciding which properties are worth their time. The bottom line? If your price doesn’t align with the market, you’re already at a disadvantage.

The Latest Market Trends in Northampton

The following data highlights how long properties in Northampton have been on the market today compared to January 2024, offering insight into recent trends. This isn’t about how long it takes to sell a home but rather the current duration properties have been listed. These figures can help identify shifts in market activity and buyer demand over time.

·       Detached homes in Northampton - Average time on the market today is 87 days, compared to 92 days in Jan 2024.

·       Semi-Detached homes in Northampton - Average time on the market today is 71 days, compared to 83 days in Jan 2024.

·       Terraced/Town Houses in Northampton - Average time on the market today is 60 days, compared to 89 days in Jan 2024.

·       Flats/Apartments in Northampton - Average time on the market today is 114 days, compared to 135 days in Jan 2024.



An Interesting Northampton Property Market for Buyers

The overall number of homes available in Northampton (town centre plus 5 miles) has remained roughly the same over the past year, going from 1,431 in January 2024 to 1,423 in January 2025. However, it gets even more interesting when we split it down by property type …

Here’s the breakdown:

·       Detached homes in Northampton - 466 for sale in January 2025, compared to 481 - a 3.1% decrease.

·       Semi-Detached homes in Northampton - 343 for sale in January 2025, compared to 353 - a 2.8% decrease.

·       Terraced/Town Houses in Northampton - 245 for sale in January 2025, compared to 213 - a 15.0% increase.

·       Flats/Apartments in Northampton - 257 for sale in January 2025, compared to 264 - a 2.7% decrease.

·       Others (Mobile Homes/Building Plots etc) in Northampton - 112 for sale in January 2025, compared to 120 - a 6.7% decrease.



The Importance of Presentation of Your Northampton Home

Buyers today have no shortage of tools to help them browse properties on the portals meaning they can scroll through hundreds of options in a matter of minutes. The average buyer views just 4-5 homes before making a decision on which home to buy, spending barely 25 minutes in each. If your property doesn’t stand out from the crowd with top quality photos, well designed brochures, it risks being dismissed without a second thought.

It’s not just about having the right asking price - it’s about making sure your home looks and feels irresistible online. Buyers need to imagine themselves living there, and that starts with how your property is presented.

Advice for Northampton Buyers: Be Proactive, Not Reactive

For buyers, finding the perfect home isn’t just about what’s on the market; it’s about being one step ahead. Did you know that around 10% of properties never make it onto the portals? Many buyers miss out on their dream homes simply because they’re relying solely on online searches. Registering directly with estate agents can give you an inside track on upcoming properties before they’re widely advertised.

Beyond that, patience is key. Finding the right property takes time, especially when you’re balancing factors like budget, location, schooling and family needs. Rushing into a decision often leads to regrets. With so much money at stake, it’s worth taking a step back and considering every option carefully.

What Does This Mean for You?

Whether you’re buying or selling, Northampton’s property market continues to offer opportunities - provided you approach it with the right mindset. For sellers, the message is clear: price realistically, present professionally and ensure your home shines in a crowded market. For buyers, it’s about staying proactive, patient and ready to act when the right property comes along.

Ultimately, the Northampton property market rewards those who take a considered, strategic approach. Whether your goal is to sell quickly or secure that dream home, understanding the market dynamics can help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Next week, I’ll talk about exactly how long Northampton properties are taking to sell.
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Tuesday, 28 January 2025

Northampton House Price Review: The January 2024 Update

 


Northampton homeowner or landlord? Curious about the trends in the Northampton’s property market? One measure is the average price paid for homes bought and sold in Northampton in the last 12 months, on a rolling month by month basis.

Each month I like to share this figure, and whilst this figure alone will not tell you much, its trend will. My followers on social media know I write regular articles on the Northampton property market. It is in those articles I expand and clarify what these monthly figures mean to you.

Whether you are contemplating selling your property or simply interested in understanding its current market value, I’m here to help. I provide detailed, no-obligation market appraisals, designed to guide your future property related decisions.

Keep yourself informed and a step ahead in understanding the true worth of your property in Northampton. For a hassle-free, comprehensive market evaluation of your home, contact us at 01604 626 626. Let's explore the potential of your Northampton property together.


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Friday, 24 January 2025

The UK Property Market Update – week finishing Sunday 18th of January 2025

 


Listings (New properties coming on to the market) - 33.7k UK listings this week (week 2). 19% higher than wk2 in 2024 YTD. 18% higher YTD than 17/18/19 YTD

· % of Resi Sales Stock being reduced (Monthly): 7.8% of Resi sales stock was reduced in December (this stat is monthly in arrears). 11.1% in November. 11.9% & 2024 average and long term 5 year average 10.6%. NB We always get a dip of this stat in December

· Total Gross Sales - 23.8k UK homes sold stc this week (Week 2) - interesting when compared with last week - 19.2k in Week 1. 48% higher YTD than YTD in 2024. Also, 8.7% higher than 2017/18/19 YTD levels.

· Sale Thru rate (Monthly): UK Estate Agents sold 10.61% of their Resi sales stock in Dec ’24 (Dec ’23 - 8.79%). 2024 average is 15.3% & the 7 year long term average is 17.9% per month.

· Sale fall-throughs - For the week 2, Sale Fall Thrus (as a % of Gross sales Agreed) 25.4%. The 7 year Long Term weekly Average is 24.2% and it was 40%+ in the two months following the Truss Budget in the Autumn of 2022. Another way of measuring sale fall thrus are the % sales pipeline that fell thru. Done monthly, Agents lost 3.8% of their sales pipeline for the month of December (2024 average 5.36%).

· Net Sales - 17.7k this week (average for week normally 14.3k). 54% higher YTD than YTD in 2024. 60% higher YTD 2025 compared to YTD 17/18/19.

· Resi Sales Stock on the Market (Monthly Stat) : 605k at end of December (down from 677k at end of Nov). For comparison, Dec ’23 - 560k, Dec ’22 - 481k, Dec ’21 - 342k, Dec ’20 - 543k, Dec ’19 - 545k.

· Resi Sales Sold STC Pipeline (Units) (Monthly Stat): 441k at end of December. For comparison, Dec ’23 - 359k, Dec ’22 - 373k, Dec ’21 - 468k, Dec ’20 - 548k, Dec ’19 - 310k.

· UK House Prices - As explained in the show, the £/sqft figure foretells and predicts the Land Registry 5 months in advance with an accuracy rating of 92%. Final December figures saw a slight drift in this important metric to £339/sq.ft. For comparison - Nov’s £342/sq.ft, August’s £334/sq.ft, and Dec ’23 at £322/sq.ft. This means house prices have grown 5.28% in the last 12 months.


If you would like to chat to us about our local property market, feel free to call us on 01604 626 626 or drop us a line at northampton@belvoir.co.uk





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Wednesday, 22 January 2025

Are We Building Too Many Homes in Northampton?

 


The issue of new housebuilding in the UK stirs strong emotions. Many believe their local areas are turning into construction zones, with too many homes being built, disrupting the character of towns and villages.

But is this perception grounded in reality?

The Labour government, which came into power in the summer of 2024, has set a bold target: 300,000 homes built annually for the next five years, amounting to 1.5 million new homes by the end of their tenure. This figure sounds ambitious - and perhaps a touch optimistic - when you consider that, as a nation, we've averaged only 170,000 to 180,000 homes per year over the last two decades.

The Numbers: Starts, Completions, and Context

In the past 12 months, the number of new homes started and completed across the UK has fallen significantly short of the Labour government's target. For instance:

  • Housing starts: 134,570
  • Housing completions: 158,420

These figures reveal a startling truth: we are building far fewer homes than we need, even as the housing crisis deepens. To meet the government's goal, we must build 10.71 homes annually per 1,000 existing homes.

Surely, We Are Building Enough New Homes in Northampton?

Despite concerns about overdevelopment, the data tells a different story. The UK is not building anywhere near enough homes to meet the needs of its growing population. Even independent studies show we must deliver at least 300,000 homes annually to address decades of undersupply and support demographic changes, such as longer life expectancies and smaller household sizes.

Many people say we don’t have the space to build these homes, but would it surprise you that only 1.2% of England and Wales is built on with residential homes? If we were to add Scotland to that number, that percentage would tumble even further.

Many people in Northampton feel the town has become a building site. However, the statistics show we're falling behind, not exceeding, the levels required to maintain a healthy housing market. The visible developments often mask the fact that we are still underperforming nationally.

So, let’s look at the stats for locality:

There are 184,166 homes in West Northamptonshire, and 1,230 new homes were built last year.

So, the number of West Northamptonshire homes built per 1,000 existing homes over the past year is 6.68, far below the benchmark required to start to alleviate housing shortages.

Who’s Building These Homes?

When breaking down the data, it’s clear that new builds are heavily skewed towards the private sector:

  • Private sector: 75.2%
  • Housing associations: 24.8%
  • Our Local Authority: 0%

While private developers dominate the market, the contribution from housing associations has been modest. However, the local authority's lack of building homes is frankly quite disappointing. This is a critical point: without a greater push from the public sector, especially our local authority, the affordable housing shortfall will persist.

Why Aren’t We Building Enough Homes in the UK?

There are several reasons for the gap between aspirations and reality:

  1. Planning bottlenecks: Many developments are held up by protracted planning processes and local opposition.
  2. Land availability: A lack of suitable land - often tied up in greenbelts or agricultural use - limits where homes can be built.
  3. Labour and material shortages: Post-pandemic and post-Brexit, the construction industry is struggling with a lack of skilled workers and rising material costs.
  4. Resistance to change: Local opposition to new developments is a significant barrier. Concerns over infrastructure, congestion, and the loss of green spaces often dominate public discourse.

The Local Impact

For homeowners in Northampton, the lack of sufficient new builds has real consequences. A restricted supply of homes contributes to higher prices and limited options for buyers and renters. For those looking to move, the challenge isn't just finding a buyer but finding and securing their next home.

I understand these frustrations as someone deeply involved in the local Northampton property market. It's not just about the numbers but how they affect people's lives. I encourage anyone curious about what these trends mean for their property journey - whether they're looking to sell, buy, or understand the market better - to reach out. There’s no obligation; I’m here to help guide and support you with the knowledge I’ve gained from years in the industry.

The Way Forward

To address the housing crisis, we need a balanced approach:

  • Empowering all local authorities and housing associations to build more affordable homes.
  • Streamlining the West Northamptonshire planning system to reduce delays and create certainty for developers.
  • Engaging communities to find common ground between development and preserving local character.
  • Supporting sustainable building practices to ensure new developments meet the needs of both current and future generations.

Building 300,000 homes a year is a steep climb, but it’s one we must tackle head-on if we are to meet the needs of future generations of Northampton people. The question is not whether we are building too many homes but whether we are building enough - and the answer, quite clearly, is no.

I certainly know if we are building these extra homes in Northampton, the infrastructure alongside these new homes needs to rise as well, like new schools and extra capacity at our hospitals.

I'd be delighted to chat if you'd like to discuss how these issues impact the local Northampton property market - or your own housing plans. Feel free to give me a call or drop me a message. Together, we can navigate the challenges of the housing market with confidence and clarity.

 


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Monday, 20 January 2025

The UK Rental Market in 2024: A Story of Change and Contrast

 


 

This graphic highlights the average rent paid for new private tenancies across the 12 UK regions in 2024. 

Unsurprisingly, London sits at the top, with rents averaging a staggering £2,883 per calendar month – just under double the next highest region.

 

Here’s the full list, ranked by average rent:

  • London – £2,883 pcm
  • South East – £1,801 pcm
  • South West – £1,633 pcm
  • East Anglia – £1,388 pcm
  • North West – £1,143 pcm
  • Wales – £1,139 pcm
  • West Midlands – £1,126 pcm
  • Scotland – £1,119 pcm
  • East Midlands – £1,066 pcm
  • Yorkshire & Humber – £1,061 pcm
  • North East – £989 pcm
  • Northern Ireland – £928 pcm

 

While London remains in its own league when it comes to rents, something else stands out: the rate of tenant turnover

Over the last 12 months, 38.61% of London rental properties came up for relet, compared to just 18.67% in the rest of the UK

London’s high turnover isn’t surprising given its transient nature – but this movement is slower than pre-pandemic times. In 201942.6% of London rentals changed hands, while for the rest of the UK, it was 25.1%.

What this tells us is that both London and the rest of the UK are seeing fewer tenants move than five years ago. Whether it’s affordability pressures, a tighter rental market, or economic uncertainty, tenants are staying put for longer.

If you are a Northampton landlord and wish to discuss how your Northampton buy-to-let property compares to others in the town, please call me on 01604 621 621 or email on northampton@belvoir.co.uk.


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Friday, 17 January 2025

UK Regional Property Market Update: Homes Sold in 2024

 


The UK property market in 2024 has seen fascinating regional variations in the number of homes sold. With over 1 million homes sold across the country, understanding these differences offers valuable insights into market activity. 

 

The broader picture of the UK’s different regions shows a diverse and dynamic market.

  • South East: Leading the pack with 167,782 sales, this region reflects its enduring popularity and diverse housing stock.
  • North West: A strong contender with 119,857 sales, showcasing its appeal for both families and investors.
  • East Anglia: A notable 112,472 homes sold, highlighting steady demand in this charming region.
  • London: With 110,693 sales, the capital remains a robust market despite shifting buyer preferences.
  • South West: Achieving 108,695 sales, its scenic appeal continues to attract movers.
  • West Midlands: A solid performance with 87,792 homes sold, reflecting its regional growth.
  • Scotland: Strong activity with 87,453 sales, demonstrating market resilience north of the border.
  • Yorkshire & Humber: A competitive 85,126 sales, with its mix of urban and rural offerings.
  • East Midlands80,692 homes sold, showing steady movement in the East Midlands.
  • Wales: A total of 47,486 sales, representing a smaller but vibrant market.
  • North East: With 43,081 homes sold, the smallest English region shows consistent demand.
  • Northern Ireland: Rounding out the UK with 22,783 homes sold, reflecting a compact yet active market.

 

Understanding these regional differences adds context to the national property market picture. 

While large numbers like the South East’s 167,782 might grab attention, it’s equally fascinating to see the consistent activity in smaller regions like Northern Ireland.

Knowing what’s happening both locally in Northampton and across the UK helps landlords and homeowners make better-informed decisions. If you’d like to discuss what these trends mean for you—or simply pick my brains on the property market—feel free to give me a call anytime.

 


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Wednesday, 15 January 2025

How much would it cost to buy all the homes in Northampton?

 


This interesting question was posed by one of my Northampton landlord’s teenage daughters when they dropped into my offices before the Christmas break (doesn’t that seem an age away now?).

I didn't know the answer off the top of my head, yet I promised I would find out. So, over the Christmas holidays, I worked out the total value of all the properties in Northampton and, just for a bit of fun, worked out how much they have gone up in value since his daughter was born in the autumn of 2010.

 

In the last 14 years, the total value of Northampton property has increased by 65%,

or £9.748 billion, to £24,745,931,859 (or £24.745 billion).

Interestingly, the FTSE100 stock market has only risen by 38.5%. When I compared it to inflation (i.e. the UK Retail Price Index), this had risen by 51.1% during the same 14 years.

When I looked deeper into the numbers,


The average price currently being paid for

a Northampton home stands at £278,571.

(Northampton being, for this exercise, all homes within a 5-mile radius of the town centre and the average price paid in the last three months).

But regular readers of my Northampton property market blog articles know me. I wasn't going to stop there, so I split the property market down into the individual property types in Northampton. The average numbers come out like this.

The Northampton property market reveals an intriguing dynamic when comparing the total value contributions of different property types.

 

·       Detached houses have an average value of £445,249 and a total of £8.806 billion.

·       Semi-detached houses, with an average value of £275,311, contribute £7.229 billion.

·       Terraced and townhouses, averaging £230,655, collectively amount to £6.483 billion.

·       Apartments, with an average value of £143,678, still contribute a substantial £2.226 billion.


This remarkable growth in property values over the past decade and a half reflects the fundamental strength of Northampton's property market. But what does this mean for homeowners, homebuyers, and landlords as we move into 2025 and beyond?

The Northampton property market remains underpinned by several key factors that ensure its resilience, even amid broader national and global economic uncertainties. Property ownership continues to be a stable and rewarding long-term investment for Northampton homeowners, buyers and landlords. While market conditions may fluctuate in the short term, history has shown that property values in Northampton tend to weather these ups and downs and emerge stronger over time.

A Growing Rental Market in Northampton

For landlords, the rental market in Northampton remains an area of significant opportunity. Demand for rental properties is robust, driven by population growth, changing lifestyle preferences, and continued interest in the area from those seeking a quieter pace of life (compared to major cities). This demand keeps rental yields steady, offering landlords a reliable income stream and the potential for capital growth.

As Northampton continues to attract young professionals and families due to its excellent transport links, quality schools, and a sense of community, the appetite for quality rental homes remains strong. For landlords considering expanding their portfolios, now may be an excellent time to explore options in Northampton's semi-detached or terraced housing market (even apartments if the service charge is reasonable), which provides a good balance of affordability and rental potential.

Supply and Demand of New Homes in Northampton

Another reason for optimism is Northampton's persistent undersupply of new housing. I know some of you will say some parts of Northampton have looked like a building site for months, yet the fact is, we aren't building enough new homes in the town. With demand consistently outstripping supply, property values are thus supported, reducing the likelihood of significant price drops.

Borrowing Costs to Buy Northampton Homes

Although interest rates are higher compared to recent years' historic lows, they remain very manageable by historical standards. For those looking to buy their home in Northampton, this can still represent an opportunity to secure a mortgage and move up the property ladder.

Meanwhile, the Bank of England's continued efforts to stabilise the wider British economy offers  hope that rates may drift downwards, further boosting buyer confidence. Beyond the financial figures, Northampton has a lot to offer. Continued investment in local infrastructure, schools, and public amenities enhances its appeal as a place to live, work, and invest.

As always, navigating the Northampton property market can be complex. Whether you're considering buying, selling, letting, or even investing in buy-to-let, making informed decisions is essential. If you'd like to discuss your property related goals or have questions about the Northampton property market, I'd be happy to help. My door is always open for a no obligation chat.

 

 


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Monday, 13 January 2025

DECEMBER'S AVERAGE £ PER SQUARE FOOT

 


Welcome back to news of Northampton’s property market, where each week I bring you different local property market stats and trends. This week I am back again with the December's £/sq.ft statistics.

The average property presently in Northampton is on the market for £258 per square foot, a figure representing the current heartbeat of Northampton’s property market.

Last month it was £256 per square foot.

That doesn’t mean Northampton house prices have changed by that percentage, just the mix of properties for sale, thus changing the £/sq.ft figure. This snapshot is crucial for Northampton homeowners and landlords; it's not just a number but a story of our community's property market.

Each month, I will revisit that figure and use it to gauge the health of our local property market.

Are you keen to know how your home aligns with these trends?

At Belvoir Northampton, I invite you to a no obligation chat about your property's potential value – no strings attached.

Stay informed, stay ahead, and stay connected with Northampton’s property market beat.



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Thursday, 9 January 2025

What are new homes worth around the UK?

 


The UK property market continues to showcase the significant role new homes play, contributing to nearly one in every five house sales annually. 

In 2024, the average price paid for a new home across the UK was £505,978, reflecting a strong demand for modern, energy-efficient properties. 


Below is a breakdown of average new home prices by region, listed in descending order:

  • London: £940,467
  • South East: £572,515
  • East Anglia: £493,622
  • South West: £456,192
  • West Midlands: £370,162
  • East Midlands: £368,267
  • Scotland: £368,267
  • Wales: £361,737
  • North West: £351,412
  • Yorkshire & Humber: £327,818
  • North East: £313,131
  • Northern Ireland: £279,827

 

London unsurprisingly tops the list, with average prices almost double the UK average, highlighting its premium market. In contrast, Northern Ireland sees the most affordable new home prices. Interestingly, East Anglia and the South East demonstrate robust averages, reflecting their appeal for both commuters and retirees.

This data underscores the diverse housing market across the UK and the continued importance of new builds in meeting buyer demands. As new homes make up a substantial portion of the market, understanding these regional variations can help buyers and estate agents navigate opportunities effectively.

If you are a Northampton homeowner, first-time buyer or landlord and wish to know if a new home could (or could not) be an appropriate next property purchase, please call us on 01604 626 626 or email on northampton@belvoir.co.uk, and ask for Richard.

 


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Wednesday, 8 January 2025

The 2024 Northampton Property Market: An analysis of last year’s property market and what will happen in 2025?

 



As an experienced estate and letting agent based in Northampton, I like to monitor the UK and Northampton property market trends.

Therefore, I will start by analysing the 2024 property market (both nationally and locally) and then give my predictions for 2025.

 

In 2024, the UK property market recorded 1,230,136 homes sold subject to contract (stc). This figure represents a significant increase compared to 2023, where only 1,066,212 properties were sold stc.

 

15.4% more UK homes sold stc in 2024, compared to 2023

 

For those of you who like your property stats, the average price of the UK property sold stc in 2023 was £354,981 with an average of £331/sq.ft. In 2024, the average sale agreed price was 1.84% higher at £361,529, yet the average pound per square foot was 2.72% higher at £340/sq.ft. 

The number of transactions has significantly risen, while the average price paid for a UK property and the pound per square foot has remained relatively the same. That means that while house prices have not really risen, the number of UK homes that sold did significantly. Remember, the best bellwether of the health of the UK property market is not necessarily UK house prices but the number of homes sold.

Such a change in the property market demands a deeper analysis to understand the underlying factors and what they might mean for local markets, such as Northampton.

 

Key Drivers of the UK Property Market Surge

Several factors have contributed to this positive momentum:

 

  1. Falling Mortgage Rates: Lower interest rates have made borrowing more accessible, encouraging buyers who may have previously hesitated due to affordability concerns.
  2. Wage Growth: Rising wages have given potential buyers greater financial confidence, enabling them to consider property purchases.
  3. Low Unemployment: A stable job market has fostered a sense of security, emboldening people to make significant life investments, such as buying a home.
  4. Changing Preferences: Post-pandemic shifts in how and where people want to live continue to play a role, with buyers seeking properties that align with their evolving lifestyles.

 

Northampton’s Property Market: A Comparative Analysis

When we turn our attention to Northampton, it's important to recognise that local markets can behave differently from national trends (Northampton being NN1 to NN7). 

In 2023, 4,463 Northampton homes sold for an average of £320,255 (at an average of £299/sq.ft.), while in 2024, 5,495 Northampton homes sold for an average of £319,533 (at an average of £300/sq.ft.).

The most important thing here is the increase in the number of transactions.

 

23.1% increase in Northampton home sales in 2024 compared to 2023

 

As I've stated before, the number of transactions is a much better bellwether of the health of the property market than house prices.

So, what of 2025?

 

Local Influences Shaping Northampton’s Property Market

Northampton's property market doesn't exist in isolation - it's shaped by a range of local factors that are often similar yet different from national trends. Changes in employment levels, ongoing infrastructure developments, and shifts in the local demographic profile can all impact it.

Regional policies can also influence market activity. Understanding these nuances is essential for property owners and landlords who want to make strategic decisions.

 

Looking Ahead into 2025: Advice for Northampton Homeowners and Landlords

As we enter 2025, the UK property market shows continued promise, yet a one-size-fits-all approach won't work in Northampton. National patterns interact uniquely with local circumstances, meaning it's vital to focus on what's happening on the ground here.

Local market knowledge is a key advantage for Northampton homeowners planning to sell or landlords managing portfolios. Evaluating your property's position within the Northampton market could make all the difference in navigating opportunities or mitigating challenges in the year ahead. While 2024 was strong, it’s critical to go beyond the headlines. Local insights often reveal opportunities that broad trends don’t capture.

 

Of the 7,876 homes that left Northampton estate agent books in 2024, only 4,199 of those homes the owner sold and moved (53.31%), while the remaining 3,677 homes (46.69%) withdrew, unsold

 

The Key to Selling Your Home in Northampton is Realistic Pricing

Looking at the statistics above, just over half of the properties listed for sale in Northampton go on to sell. This highlights an essential truth about the Northampton property market: pricing your home realistically is the single most crucial factor in securing a successful sale. Many estate agents are tempted to overprice properties to win your business, but this approach can significantly hinder your chances of selling, especially in a competitive market like Northampton.

Research by ‘Denton House’ reveals that properties listed at the right price from the start are far more likely to sell quickly and successfully. For example, homes that sell within the first 25 days of being listed have a 94% likelihood of reaching completion and ensuring the homeowner successfully moves. However, if a property lingers on the market for over 100 days, if the homeowner does agree on a sale, the chances of that sale going on to exchange and complete (i.e. the homeowner moving) plummet dramatically to 56%.

As an experienced local estate agent in Northampton, I understand the intricacies of our market and can provide honest, expert advice about your property's value. I aim to help you set a realistic asking price that maximises your chances of selling while achieving a fair and competitive market value. I analyse local market conditions daily and stay up-to-date with shifting trends, ensuring your home is priced to sell - not to sit on the market.

If you’re eager to move and want a reliable, professional approach to selling your home in 2025, I'm here to help. Let's work together to make your property stand out in Northampton's market, attract motivated buyers and ensure a smooth sale from start to finish. Get in touch today for tailored advice and a strategy to sell your Northampton home.

 


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