How the Property Market Looks in 2026 - An Expert View
- Francesca Watson
- 9 hours ago
- 4 min read
At Otters Home Search, we’ve always believed that moving home should feel exciting - not exhausting. As Chartered Surveyors and property buying specialists with deep roots in the South West market, we’re watching 2026’s housing landscape settle into a new kind of normal - one shaped by thoughtful buyer demand, lifestyle priorities, and selective competition across the best-loved areas of Bath, the Cotswolds, Somerset and beyond.
Although price growth has softened in parts of the UK, confidence among active buyers remains strong, and many people are adjusting their search criteria based on personal lifestyles and priorities, not just price bands.
Here’s how we see things:
Hotspots Are Still Winning Hearts
People aren’t just buying a house, they’re buying a way of life. From the neighbourhoods of Bath to the villages on the leafy edges of the Cotswolds or Somerset market towns with bustling local scenes, these locations continue to outperform because they offer community, convenience, and character.
Search Strategy Matters More Than Ever
With excellent properties in desirable places, still seeing strong demad, being prepared - with clarity on what you need and flexibility on how you get there - is invaluable. This is where we focus: helping clients refine what success looks like and match them with the right home in the right place.
Our Thoughts on Today’s Market
Abbie Long - The Market Through a Buyer’s Eyes
“What we’re seeing now is a market where buyers are thoughtful, purposeful and prepared. They’re not just chasing the cheapest price, they want quality of life, community and long-term value. That means being strategic in selecting locations, understanding what makes a neighbourhood work, and having someone on your side who knows how to uncover opportunities others might miss.”
Abbie’s emphasis on clarity and preparation reflects the way Otters Home Search approaches every brief - by taking time to understand what matters most to you before turning that into a focused property hunt.
Francesca Watson - Relocation and Lifestyle Insight
“We often support buyers relocating from London and other cities who tell us that they want more than just space - they want a place that feels like home from day one. For many, that’s a combination of walkable communities, green spaces, local amenities and easy transport links.”
Francesca’s experience helping families and professionals navigate big transitions gives her a unique perspective on what makes certain hotspots continue to appeal - not just for today’s market conditions, but for lasting satisfaction.
Expert Voices: What the Industry Is Seeing
Some thoughts from our industry contacts across the South of England:
Design Shapes Demand
Interior design isn’t just a finishing touch, it’s part of what helps buyers emotionally connect with a home. Anna Wakeham’s work focuses on timeless, comfortable spaces that enhance both the feel and functionality of a property, whether owners are living in it or selling it later.
“A thoughtful interior can elevate a house into a home - and it doesn’t have to mean major renovation. Colour, texture and layout all signal quality and care, which buyers respond to.”
Whether it’s a country barn or a period townhouse, Anna highlights how great design helps properties stand out - both in person and in imagery.
Strategy Wins the Race
Ben Procter of Oxford Property Consulting has long championed the value of off-market opportunities and professional positioning in busy markets.
“A lot of the time, good buyers are simply too late to the party. Securing access to properties before they’re widely marketed puts our clients ahead of the competition and often at better prices without the stress of a bidding war.”
Ben’s experience reinforces an important truth: in hotspots with sustained interest, access and timing are just as important as location.
The Value of Local Insight
Maranda Jones from Property Potential brings another dimension: the mix of local knowledge and creative thinking that helps homebuyers uncover hidden gems.
“Finding the right property isn’t just about what you see on portals - it’s about knowing the nuances of an area, understanding where opportunities lie, and having the contacts to act on them the moment they appear.”
Maranda’s focus on tailored, attentive service mirrors what we do at Otters Home Search: a personal, strategic, and instinctive approach to finding and securing homes that truly fit each client’s life and plans.
What This Means for You
The 2026 UK housing market isn’t weak, it’s disciplined. Buyers are prioritising lifestyle, quality, and strategy; hotspots remain hotspots because they deliver on what matters most; and expert insight whether from design, buying agents, or local property specialists gives you an edge.
At Otters Home Search, we combine:
Local market expertise
Deep understanding of buyer goals
Access to on- and off-market opportunities
Support across the entire process
to make sure your move isn’t just successful, it’s thoughtful, joyful and well-informed.
Thinking about your next move? Whether you’re relocating, downsizing, or searching for that dream country home, let us help you navigate the market with confidence.
Abbie & Francesca
📞Abbie - 07400 736436
📞Francesca - 07900 905764
