UK homebuyers delay property searches ahead of Autumn Budget

Research from the House Buyer Bureau indicates that nearly half of potential property buyers in the UK have either paused their search or are considering doing so ahead of the upcoming Autumn Budget. Specifically, 27% of respondents have already delayed their plans, while an additional 21% are undecided.

Key concerns driving this hesitation include potential changes to mortgage rates, cited by 23% of those waiting, as well as uncertainty regarding higher taxes, buying costs, and changes to Stamp Duty. Many prospective buyers had already engaged with the market before deciding to wait; 54% had been browsing properties online, 19% had contacted estate agents, and 12% had attended viewings.

Speculation surrounds potential fiscal changes, including possible adjustments to Mansion Tax and the alignment of Income Tax and Capital Gains Tax, which could impact landlords. Industry experts suggest that while uncertainty may lift once the government clarifies its position, sellers may face increased difficulty in securing buyers in the interim.