J W Wood Estate Agents

Market Update: Encouraging Signs for Autumn 2025

As summer draws to a close and autumn begins, the UK housing market is showing some promising signs – especially in the North East. At JW Wood, we’re keeping a close eye on the trends so you can make well‐informed decisions. Here’s what’s going on, and what’s good news for buyers, sellers, and landlords in the region.

JW Wood3 min read
ReadingMarket Update: Encouraging Signs for Autumn 2025

As summer draws to a close and autumn begins, the UK housing market is showing some promising signs – especially in the North East. At JW Woods, we’re keeping a close eye on the trends so you can make well‐informed decisions. Here’s what’s going on, and what’s good news for buyers, sellers, and landlords in the region.

Key Trends at a Glance

From Zoopla’s “House Price Index” and their “Rental Market Report” along with Rightmove’s latest house-price update, several positive shifts are emerging.

House Price Growth & Speed of Sales

  • House price inflation is modest but stable: UK average house prices are about 1.3% higher over the past year, per Zoopla, with homes still selling faster in northern regions than in the South.

  • In the North East and North West, homes are under offer in an average of 27 days, considerably quicker than the national average of ~35 days.

  • Rightmove reports a small monthly uptick in asking prices (+0.4%), though as of September 2025, prices are just 0.1% below the same time last year – the first annual decline since early 2024.

Rental Market Softening & Affordability

  • Rental inflation has cooled: new lets across the UK show only 2.4% growth year-on-year, the slowest in about 4 years.

  • That said, landlords in the North East continue to do relatively well: rental yields are among the highest in the country, above 7.5% in some parts.

  • Supply is increasing – more homes are being listed to rent, and also some that were for sale are now entering the rental market. This easing in supply/demand imbalance is helping temper sharp rent rises.

What This Means for the North East

Our region benefits from some favourable conditions right now:

  1. Faster sales – Homes here are selling quicker than many other parts of the UK; if your property is priced appropriately, it’s likely to attract buyers promptly.

  2. Better affordability – Lower entry price points compared with the South, combined with relatively stable prices, mean buyers are less stretched, especially first-time buyers.

  3. Attractive yields for landlords – With rental growth slowing, but rents still solid and yields strong, rental investment remains appealing in our region.

Advice for Buyers, Sellers & Landlords

Here’s how to make the most of the current climate:

  • Sellers: Getting your price right is key. Overpricing can lead to a property lingering on the market. Homes priced realistically tend to sell faster and with fewer price reductions.

  • Buyers: There’s a bit more slack now than in the boomier years, especially in terms of choice. It’s a good time to shop carefully, negotiate wisely, and ensure your finances are in order.

  • Landlords / Investors: The increasing supply of rental properties means competition is slightly higher, but strong yields make it worth considering opportunities. Also, as first-time buyers find it somewhat easier to enter the market, some tenants may shift to buying, freeing up rental stock.

Looking Ahead

From current indicators:

  • House price inflation is expected to remain modest (Zoopla projects around 1.5-2% annually) for the rest of 2025.

  • Rental inflation is likely to stay in the 2-3% range.

  • Increased supply, particularly of rental homes, may ease pressure on rents and give renters more choices.

Conclusion

For the North East, the autumn market paints a picture that’s cautiously optimistic. Prices are stable, demand remains solid, and for those making moves – whether buying, selling, or renting out – the conditions are looking favourable. At JW Woods, we believe this is a great moment to engage with the market, backed by good advice and local insight.

If you’re considering selling or letting, or just want a valuation to see where you stand, we’d love to help. Let us guide you through the best strategy tailored to your needs.

Sources from Zoopla and Rightmove