UK home sales fall 10.4% in June 2026

UK residential property transactions dropped 10.4% year‑on‑year in June 2026, according to market analyst Chris Watkin. The decline is measured against an unusually strong June 2025, but sales remain above 2023 levels and roughly in line with 2024.

All regions recorded a fall, yet the North East saw a 6% rise in sales despite a 20% plunge in buyer demand, the sharpest regional drop in demand. London posted the strongest growth among regions, with agreements up 8% year‑on‑year, while a 13% increase in listings is expected to keep price pressure modest.

Bank of England data show mortgage approvals for house purchases rose 3.1% in April 2026 to 65,945, the highest level since January 2025. The RICS Residential Market Survey indicated new buyer enquiries at –34% and agreed sales at –36%, reflecting a challenging macro‑economic backdrop and rising interest‑rate expectations. Analysts note that while buyer affordability remains strained, the market is operating with steady transaction levels and a cautious but stable outlook.