New Zoopla research suggests buyer demand is growing, while proposed mortgage lending reforms could help more people onto the property ladder. Rachael Mitchell, Head of Residential Conveyancing at Lawson West, explains what this could mean for home movers this autumn.
There is growing optimism in the property market as new research from Zoopla suggests an autumn boost could already be underway. For anyone considering buying a house, selling a house or moving home this autumn, the latest figures provide encouraging signs that buyer confidence is returning. The research shows that the number of people searching for homes is up 7% compared to this time last year, leading many industry experts to predict a busy season for home movers
After a quieter summer, many buyers appear to be returning to the market and exploring their options. While affordability remains a challenge due to higher mortgage rates, the increase in search activity suggests that many prospective movers are no longer willing to sit on the sidelines waiting for the perfect market conditions.
More Buyers Looking, More Choice Available
One of the most encouraging aspects of the current market is that there are more homes available for sale than there were at this time last year. This gives buyers greater choice and more opportunity to compare properties before committing to a purchase. At the same time, sellers may find renewed interest from purchasers looking to secure a move before the end of the year.
However, affordability remains an important factor. Higher mortgage rates have reduced borrowing power for many buyers, meaning careful budgeting and professional advice remain essential.
Could Lending Changes Help More People Move?
There is also cautious optimism within the property industry following the Financial Conduct Authority’s recent Mortgage Rule Review consultation. The consultation considered ways to help more creditworthy consumers access suitable mortgage products, including first-time buyers, self-employed borrowers, those with variable income and older borrowers. The consultation has now closed, and the FCA is reviewing responses before publishing its conclusions.
Importantly, the proposals do not remove affordability requirements. Instead, they aim to provide lenders with greater flexibility when assessing borrowers whose circumstances may not fit traditional lending models. If adopted, the changes could make it easier for some buyers to access mortgage finance while maintaining responsible lending standards.
Combined with the increase in buyer activity reported by Zoopla, these developments could provide a welcome boost to the housing market in the months ahead.
What Does This Mean If You’re Thinking of Moving?
If you are considering buying or selling a property this autumn, now could be an excellent time to start preparing.
For buyers, increased property availability means more opportunities to find the right home. For sellers, a rise in buyer enquiries could translate into more viewings and potentially more offers as confidence returns to the market.
Regardless of whether you are buying or selling, one of the best ways to avoid delays is to instruct a conveyancer as early as possible. Many issues that can slow down a transaction can be identified and addressed before a buyer is found or before an offer is made.
This might include:
Taking these steps early can help make the transaction smoother and less stressful for everyone involved.
How Lawson West Can Help
At Lawson West, our experienced Residential Conveyancing team helps clients navigate every stage of the home-moving process.
Whether you are a first-time buyer, moving home, downsizing, purchasing an investment property or selling a family home, we provide clear, practical advice and proactive support from instruction through to completion.
We pride ourselves on:
Rachael Mitchell, Head of Residential Conveyancing at Lawson West, commented:
“It’s encouraging to see signs of renewed confidence in the property market after a quieter summer. While affordability remains an important consideration for many buyers, increased search activity suggests that people are beginning to move forward with their plans rather than waiting for the ‘perfect’ time to move.
There is also cautious optimism within the industry following the FCA’s recent consultation on mortgage lending rules. If some of the proposed changes are adopted, they could provide greater opportunities for creditworthy buyers, including first-time buyers and those with non-traditional income arrangements, to access the mortgage market.
Whether you’re buying your first home, moving up the property ladder, downsizing or investing, preparation remains key. Instructing a conveyancer early can help identify and resolve potential issues before they cause delays, putting you in the best possible position when the right opportunity arises. Our team is here to guide clients through every stage of the transaction and make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible.”
Thinking of Moving This Autumn?
If you’re considering buying or selling a property, now could be the ideal time to start preparing. With buyer confidence showing signs of improvement and potential changes to mortgage lending on the horizon, those who are organised and ready to proceed may be best placed to take advantage of opportunities as they arise.
At Lawson West, our experienced Residential Conveyancing team is here to help you move with confidence. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, moving home, remortgaging, downsizing or purchasing an investment property, we provide clear advice, proactive support and regular communication throughout the transaction.
To discuss your plans or obtain a no-obligation conveyancing quote, contact our Residential Conveyancing team today. Call us on 0116 212 1000, email residentialconveyancingteam@lawson-west.co.uk or complete our online enquiry form. We’d be delighted to help you take the next step in your property journey.
To read the article follow the link House Price Index: August 2026 – Zoopla
