Half-Year Property Market Update: Confidence Continues to Build Across Surrey & Hampshire
By Bourne Estate Agents | Created on 29th July 2026
As we reach the end of July, it’s a natural time to reflect on the first half of the year and look ahead to what the remainder of 2026 may bring. Across Surrey and Hampshire, the property market has continued to demonstrate resilience, with buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants all adapting to a more balanced and sustainable marketplace.
At Bourne Estate Agents, we’ve seen consistent levels of activity across both our sales and lettings departments. While the pace of the market has normalised compared with the extraordinary conditions of previous years, confidence has steadily grown, and well-prepared buyers and sellers continue to achieve excellent results.
Christian Howes, our Managing Director recently shared his thoughts on the first half of the year in a short market update video, reflecting on the trends we’ve experienced across our network and the positive outlook for the months ahead. If you haven’t already watched it, it’s well worth taking a few moments to hear his insights.
A Market Built on Confidence, Not Urgency
One of the biggest changes we’ve seen during the first six months of the year is a shift in buyer behaviour.
Today’s buyers are taking a little more time to make decisions, but that shouldn’t be mistaken for a lack of demand. Buyers are researching thoroughly, arranging finances early and waiting for the right property rather than simply the next available one.
When the right home comes to market; well presented, realistically priced and in a desirable location, it continues to generate strong interest and competitive offers.
This more considered approach has created a healthier market, benefiting both buyers and sellers alike.
Quality Homes Continue to Perform Well
Throughout the first half of the year, one trend has remained remarkably consistent.
Properties that are presented to a high standard and priced accurately from day one continue to outperform the wider market.
Buyers are particularly attracted to homes offering:
Flexible living accommodation
Energy-efficient improvements
Modern kitchens and bathrooms
Home office space
Attractive gardens and outdoor entertaining areas
Proximity to excellent schools and transport links
These lifestyle features remain key decision-makers for families, professionals and those relocating into Surrey and Hampshire.
Pricing Correctly Has Never Been More Important
The first few weeks after a property launches remain the most important.
Accurate pricing continues to generate:
Higher viewing numbers
Greater online engagement
More competitive offers
Faster agreed sales
Conversely, properties launched above current market expectations often lose momentum before requiring price adjustments later.
Our local teams continue to provide evidence-based valuations, ensuring every property enters the market with the strongest possible chance of success.
The Lettings Market Remains Exceptionally Strong
Demand for rental property has remained robust throughout the year.
Across Surrey and Hampshire, quality rental homes continue to attract strong levels of interest from professionals, families and applicants relocating into the region.
At the same time, landlords continue to navigate an evolving legislative landscape, making professional advice more valuable than ever.
Our lettings teams have been working closely with landlords to help them remain compliant, protect their investments and provide an excellent experience for tenants.
Looking Ahead to the Autumn Market
Historically, late summer and early autumn represent another busy period for the property market.
Many buyers who paused their search during the holiday season return in September with renewed motivation, particularly families hoping to complete before Christmas or before the new year begins.
We’re already seeing encouraging levels of enquiry from homeowners planning their next move later this year.
For sellers considering coming to market this autumn, now is the ideal time to begin preparing:
Preparation now can make all the difference when the market gathers pace again after the summer holidays.
A Positive Outlook for the Second Half of 2026
While economic headlines will always influence sentiment, the underlying property market across Surrey and Hampshire remains encouraging.
Buyer confidence continues to improve, mortgage products have become more varied, and realistic pricing is helping transactions progress smoothly.
Perhaps most importantly, people continue to move for life’s biggest milestones; growing families, new careers, downsizing, retirement or simply a change of lifestyle. Those motivations remain unchanged, creating consistent demand across our local markets.
As we move into the second half of the year, we’re optimistic about the opportunities ahead for buyers, sellers, landlords and tenants alike.
Thinking About Your Next Move?
Whether you’re planning to buy, sell, let or simply want to understand what your property is worth in today’s market, the team at Bourne Estate Agents is here to help.
With expert local knowledge, honest advice and a personalised approach, we’ll help you make informed decisions and move with confidence throughout the rest of 2026.
Contact us today for a FREE, no-obligation valuation or a personalised local market update, tailored specifically to your town, village and street.
We are a refreshing, fully independent business that has quickly built up an enviable network of branches across Surrey and Hampshire. Two thirds of our business comes via recommendations, demonstrating that we are totally committed to providing our clients with a proactive and dynamic approach to moving, from start to finish.
