Stories

Mon, 29 Jun 2026

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 Homes harder to sell as high mortgage rates frustrate buyers

Three in five homes listed for sale since January remain on the market, says property portal Zoopla.

* Agreed sales fell by 7% compared to last year, with some areas seeing declines of up to 12%.
* First-time buyers were most affected by high mortgage rates, but lenders have started lowering rates.
* Two-thirds of one- and two-bedroom flats listed this year remain unsold.
* Sales in northern England and Scotland fell at a lower rate due to fewer homes for sale and smaller cash increase in mortgage costs.
* Estate agents report that homes are taking longer to sell, with buyers becoming increasingly hesitant.