Why Now Is a Great Time to Move Home

- Mon 08 Jun 2026

Whether you’re looking to upsize, downsize, or take your first step onto the property ladder, current market conditions are creating a unique opportunity for buyers and sellers alike. With a more balanced landscape emerging, there are several compelling reasons why now could be the ideal time to make your move.

A More Stable Pricing Environment

The housing market is now experiencing a phase of stabilisation. In some areas, prices have adjusted slightly, while in others they have remained relatively flat. This creates a more predictable environment for buyers and sellers.

Rather than trying to “time the market,” a stable or gently adjusting market means you’re less likely to lose out financially when moving from one property to another. If you’re selling and buying simultaneously, any modest price changes tend to balance out - making it a fairer and more transparent process for everyone involved.

Greater Choice for Buyers

One of the biggest advantages of the current market is the increased availability of homes. With more properties coming to market, buyers now have a wider selection to choose from, whether you’re searching for your forever home, a low-maintenance downsizing option, or your very first property.

This improved choice means you can take the time to find a home that truly suits your lifestyle, needs, and budget - rather than feeling pressured to act quickly in a highly competitive environment.

Improving Mortgage Rates

Mortgage rates, which had risen in recent years, are now beginning to ease. Lenders are increasingly competitive and keen to support buyers, resulting in more attractive mortgage products becoming available.

For buyers, this can translate into improved affordability and more confidence when planning your move. For first-time buyers in particular, this shift in lending conditions can make homeownership more achievable than it has been in recent times.

Darren Ellis, Group Sales Director at Bradleys Estate Agents, commented:

“We often hear that people worry about losing out if the market is rising in price or dropping in price, when the market is reasonably static, it allows people to move without that concern and make the right choice without the pressure other markets can bring.”

A Realistic Timeline to Move This Year

The conveyancing process, that generally starts when a buyer is found, is taking longer due to increased compliance and legislation reaching 120 days from agreed to exchanging contracts, so allowing for this now means you can move within the year.

If a buyer is secured promptly, there is every opportunity to progress a sale through to completion within a reasonable timeframe. This gives both buyers and sellers a clear path forward and the ability to plan their next steps with confidence.

Opportunities for Every Type of Mover

• Upsizers can take advantage of increased choice and a less pressured buying environment to secure a larger home that meets their long-term needs.
• Downsizers may benefit from strong demand for well-presented homes, while also enjoying the ability to negotiate on their next purchase.
• First-time buyers are seeing improved mortgage options and a broader selection of available properties, helping make that important first step more achievable.

How Bradleys Estate Agents Can Help

At Bradleys Estate Agents, we understand that every move is different. Whether you’re buying, selling, or both, our experienced team is here to provide tailored advice based on your individual circumstances.

As the largest independent estate agent in the region, we offer access to one of the widest selections of properties available, giving you more choice and better opportunities to find the right home. Our local expertise, combined with a proactive and supportive approach, ensures you receive guidance every step of the way - from initial valuation through to completion.

If you’re considering a move, now could be the perfect time to act - and Bradleys is here to help you make it happen with confidence.