Britain’s property market is experiencing its toughest selling conditions in 15 years, with average sales cycles stretching to 75 days – the longest since 2011 – and an 11‑year peak in homes for sale. a mix of falling prices, higher borrowing costs and lingering economic uncertainty is leaving sellers, from first‑time owners to retirees, stuck on the market.

75‑day average selling time hits 2011 high

The latest figures from estate‑agent Hamptons show the average time to sell a UK home has risen to 75 days, matching the longest period recorded in 2011. This slowdown reflects a broader reluctance among buyers, who are now facing higher mortgage rates and tighter credit conditions.

Rightmove reports 11‑year high listings

According to data from property portal Rightmove, the number of homes on the market has climbed to its highest level in 11 years.. The surge in supply is outpacing demand, as the portal also notes a decline in buyer enquiries compared with the previous year.

One‑bedroom flats see >33% price loss

Land Registry data reveals that more than a third of one‑bedrom apartments are now selling for less than the purchase price owners paid, underscoring the collapse in flat values that has trapped many first‑time buyers who hoped to move up the ladder.

Veronica Evans’ £725,000 bungalow stalls after 14 months

In a vivid illustration of the market’s strain, 91‑year‑old former nutritionist Veronica Evans has been unable to sell her three‑bedroom chalet bungalow in Bournemouth despite lisitng it for £725,000 in March 2025 and cutting the price by £75,000 over the past year. Evans, who hopes to relocate near family in Teddington, says the “buyers’ market” has left her feeling “totally stuck.”

Will tighter mortgage rates revive buyer demand?

Analysts are still unsure whether the current dip in buyer activity will reverse as the Bank of England’s rate policy evolves. Some market watchers argue that a modest easing of borrowing costs could reignite interest, while others warn that lingering political and fiscal uncertainties may keep demand muted.

According to the report, more than two‑in‑five homes listed in the past three years failed to sell, and a Zoopla survey of 2 ,000 recent sellers found that 44% never completed a sale, with 34% later admitting their asking price was too high. As sellers grapple with these realities, the market’s trajectory remains uncertain.