Around 36,500 new properties came onto the market in Week 26, keeping listing levels in line with seasonal expectations and well above pre-pandemic averages.

For buyers, that's excellent news.

More homes mean you can compare properties, take your time, and avoid making rushed decisions. Instead of feeling pressured into offering over the asking price, you can focus on finding the home that genuinely meets your needs and budget.

Are Buyers Calling the Shots?

The latest figures show that only 13.8% of homes on estate agents' books secured a buyer in June, down from 14.6% in May.

In simple terms, sellers have more competition than buyers.

With plenty of properties available, buyers are becoming increasingly selective. Homes that are overpriced, poorly presented, or slow to adapt to market conditions are taking longer to sell.

This creates opportunities to negotiate—particularly on properties that have been on the market for several weeks.

Negotiation Matters More Than Ever

One of the most revealing statistics is that half of all properties leaving estate agents' books in June didn't actually sell. Instead, they were withdrawn from the market.

That doesn't necessarily mean prices are about to fall dramatically. It simply shows that many sellers are unwilling to accept offers they believe are too low.

As a buyer, the key is to negotiate based on evidence rather than assumptions. Research comparable sales, understand the local market, and make offers that reflect current values—not wishful thinking.

Well-Priced Homes Still Sell

While buyers have greater negotiating power, it's important not to mistake a slower market for a weak one.

Properties that are:

realistically priced,

well presented,

and located in desirable areas,

are still attracting strong interest and selling successfully.

If you find a home that offers good value and suits your long-term plans, waiting indefinitely for a significant price reduction could mean missing out.

Prices Remain Resilient

Despite increased competition among sellers, average achieved prices remain surprisingly robust.

Homes sold in June achieved an average of £350.22 per square foot, representing:

a 1.9% increase compared with last year, and

a 12.3% increase over the past five years.

The market isn't experiencing widespread price declines. Instead, we're seeing a shift in bargaining power from sellers to buyers.

What This Means for You

Today's market rewards buyers who are prepared.

Before making an offer:

Compare several similar properties.

Check recent sold prices in the area.

Be prepared to negotiate confidently.

Don't feel pressured into making quick decisions.

But when you find a genuinely well-priced property that meets your needs, don't assume waiting will automatically result in a better deal.

The Bottom Line

The UK housing market has become more balanced than it has been for years.

Buyers now enjoy greater choice, more negotiating power, and less pressure than during the highly competitive markets of recent years.

Success isn't about securing the biggest discount—it's about recognising value. Buyers who do their research, stay patient, and negotiate sensibly are in an excellent position to find the right home at the right price.