As the leaves turn and we move deeper into autumn, the UK property market continues to tread carefully. Prices are no longer racing ahead, but neither are they falling off a cliff - instead the mood is one of waiting and watching.

Market snapshot

Across the UK, average asking prices crept up by just 0.3% in October, well below the usual seasonal uplift. Year-on-year prices are marginally down 0.1%, while in London values dipped by around 0.9% over the last three months.
On the rental side, demand remains strong, with average rents in the capital rising by 1.5% over the quarter. For landlords, this is a reminder that well-presented rental properties are still in high demand.

What’s driving the market?

Uncertainty over the autumn budget is weighing heavily. Potential reforms being discussed include:

  • Higher Capital Gains Tax for homes over £1.5m
  • A possible annual property levy to replace stamp duty
  • New charges for second homes and landlords

This speculation is putting a brake on the upper end of the market. In some prime postcodes, buyers are adopting a “wait-and-see” approach until the government confirms its plans.

At the same time, affordability pressures - from higher mortgage rates to the rising cost of living - are keeping buyers cautious. Yet with fewer homes for sale, motivated buyers are still active.

Renters’ Rights Bill - Nearing the finish line

The Renters’ Rights Bill continues its journey through Parliament. Once passed, most likely in 2026, it will:

  • Abolish no-fault evictions (Section 21)
  • Make rolling tenancies the norm
  • Limit rent increases to once per year
  • Enforce Decent Homes standards

For tenants, this means greater stability. For landlords and investors, it highlights the importance of offering quality, long-term rental homes that attract loyal tenants.

What does this mean for you?

  • Sellers - with fewer properties on the market, you can still capture buyer attention - but pricing realistically is key
  • Buyers - this period of pause may be your moment to negotiate before any tax changes take hold
  • Investors - strong rental demand continues to support yields, especially for well-managed homes in desirable locations


Final thoughts from Dutch & Dutch

At Dutch & Dutch, we see October not as a slowdown, but as a reset. The coming Budget will bring clarity, but in the meantime, opportunities remain for those ready to act.

If you’re thinking about your next move - whether buying, selling, or investing - our team is here to guide you through. Call us on 020 7794 0075 to speak to one of our experts.