Your October 2025 Property Market Update

 

There’s been plenty of talk in the media lately about what might be included in the upcoming Budget, and it’s understandably causing a little uncertainty across the property market. While the Government has hinted that those with “the broadest shoulders” will be asked to contribute more, any direct impact on our local homeowners is likely to be limited.

As always, we’ll be keeping a close eye on the announcements when the full details are revealed on 26th November. Once we know more, we’ll share exactly what it means for buyers, sellers, and landlords in our area. Stay tuned for our update next month.

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Insights from your trusted estate agent

As your trusted estate agent, we’ve brought together the latest insights from Halifax, Nationwide, Rightmove and Zoopla this October to help sellers and buyers understand what’s happening in today’s market, and what it means for their move.

A property market that rewards smart pricing

September was steady in terms of average prices. Halifax reports prices broadly flat month-to-month and modestly up on last year, while Nationwide mirrors that picture with gentle, low single-digit growth.

Locally, our team of estate agents have seen the same story across Kent: good homes at the right price are still selling, but buyers are comparing more closely as supply increases.

Mortgage rates hovering around 5% are keeping affordability stable enough for serious movers, meaning a balanced but competitive market where the best-presented, best-priced homes still go quickly.

Property prices show gentle growth

Halifax: Typical UK home at £298,184, down 0.3% on the month but 1.3% higher year-on-year.

Nationwide: Up 0.5% on the month and 2.2% annually.

Different data sets, same story: gentle growth, no sign of a slide. Here in Kent, we’re seeing prices hold firm, especially for well-maintained family homes close to good schools and transport links.

A lift in asking prices and activity

Rightmove reports asking prices up 0.4% in September to £370,257, just 0.1% below this time last year. Crucially, sales agreed are 4% higher year-on-year. 

For sellers, this means buyers are still committing, but only when the property is priced right and presented well. As a leading estate agent, we’re seeing that accurate pricing at launch makes all the difference in how quickly a home sells, but more importantly, the actual sale price. Rightmove reports that inaccurately priced properties at launch actually, on average, sell for less money in the end and take much longer to sell.

More choice for buyers, especially in the South

There are more homes are on the market than last year, giving buyers more choice. In the South of England, listings are up around 9%, compared with 2% elsewhere.

That’s particularly true across parts of Kent, where more sellers are testing the market before winter. The result? A slightly longer selling time, about five extra days on average, and more reason to stand out with sharper pricing and standout marketing.

Zoopla: A two-speed market emerging

Zoopla’s House Price Index shows annual price growth of around 1.4%, with affordable regions still outperforming higher-value areas. Pre-Budget speculation has slowed demand for £500k+ and £1m+ homes, but the mainstream market remains resilient.

The average estate agent now carries about 36 listings, up on 2024. This is proof that competition is increasing. Launching at the right price matters more than ever, especially in busy local markets like Maidstone, Sittingbourne, and Faversham.

What this means for sellers in Kent

1. Price to win
With more homes available, buyers are skipping listings that feel overpriced. The homes selling fastest are the ones that launch with a realistic guide price and strong marketing.

2. Tailor your approach by price point
If you’re selling around £500k or above, expect more cautious buyers until the Budget passes. Focus on premium marketing and honest pricing. For homes in the core market, steady demand means great photos, video tours, and standout descriptions are key.

3. Make the most of the rates window
With mortgage rates steady below 5%, there’s a window of opportunity for sellers to attract confident autumn buyers. Launch now while autumn buyers are actively looking.

Quealy & Co’s take: Balanced, competitive, and full of opportunity

The data adds up to a stable and balanced market with steady prices, solid buyer intent, and plenty of choice. That balance rewards sellers who get the launch right from day one: the right price, great presentation, and quick communication with interested buyers.

At Quealy & Co, we’ve seen time and again that a well thought out property launch with exceptional marketing beats a later price reduction. This is supported nationally by research carried out by Rightmove.

Thinking of selling your Kent home this autumn?

Now is a great moment to get your home market-ready.

Book a free, no-obligation valuation with your trusted estate agent, Quealy & Co, and find out how we can help you sell confidently in a balanced market.

We’re here to help you take your next step with confidence. Just give us a ring at 01795 429836 or drop us an email at hello@quealy.co.uk. 

For a quick online valuation of your home's market value, whether you're selling or letting: Click here.