The Intermediary – August 2026 - Flipbook - Page 78
R A P I D R E AC T I O N
Andy Burnham
A n dy
Burnham
The Intermediary asks industry experts
to weigh in on what the new Prime Minister
could mean for the housing market
Adam Jennings
Colleen Babcock
head of residential at Chestertons
property expert at Rightmove
Andy Burnham’s appointment as Prime
The mini ‘Burnham bounce’ and some renewed
Minister comes at a pivotal moment for the
general optimism have brought a degree of
housing market. The sales market has endured a
improvement to the market as a whole in
prolonged period of political uncertainty, global
recent weeks. Whether that develops into a
geopolitical tensions and shifting economic
more sustained recovery will likely depend
conditions, all of which have weighed on
on confidence, mortgage rates and the new
buyer confidence.
Chancellor’s first Budget this Autumn.
Our latest data shows portal enquiries
are down 20% year-on-year as many buyers
continue to adopt a ‘wait and see’ approach.
However, committed buyers are still progressing,
with offers and exchanges both up 11%,
demonstrating that demand remains in
the market.
This suggests that while some purchasers are
delaying decisions, those with clear moving
plans are prepared to act when the right
opportunity arises.
We all know that political instability depresses
both the wider economy and housing market.
What the market needs now is stability, clear
direction and a long-term commitment to
housing. If the new Government can provide
a realistic strategy around planning reform,
housebuilding and the wider economy, it will
give buyers, sellers and developers the confidence
to move forward.
Consistent policy and strong leadership will
be essential to sustaining momentum and
supporting growth across the property sector.
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The Intermediary | August 2026
Nathan Emerson
CEO at Propertymark
Over the past few years, we have seen significant
challenges across the housing sector, all of
which have required clear and objective thinking
to help the sector navigate the change.
New legislation has been introduced in
recent years, with further reforms currently in
progress and others yet to be implemented, all
against the challenging backdrop of an uneven
economy. Combined, these factors have changed
the narrative and required a new approach. In
many cases, the current pace of change has left
consumers in a constant state of catch-up.
Housing remains an issue of universal
importance, and it is an area where clear,
objective planning is essential to deliver
meaningful and much-needed change.
Across all four nations of the UK, there are
considerable challenges to navigate, each
driven by differing local needs. Every corner of
