York Property Market Update January 2026
The York housing market has entered 2026 with steady momentum and a renewed sense of confidenceas we go into the New Year. After a period of adjustment through much of 2025, buyer and seller activity in early January has been encouraging, supported by improved sentiment and more stable borrowing conditions.
Enquiry levels at the start of the year have been strongest for well located family homes and character properties within established areas of the city. Buyers remain cautious but committed, with many having spent time reassessing budgets and requirements over the Christmas holidays before re engaging with the market. This has resulted in fewer speculative viewings and more meaningful interest from proceedable buyers.
Mortgage rates have continued to ease gradually folloing the Bank of England's reduction in the base rate in December, helping unlock demand that had been waiting on the sidelines. While rates remain above the historic lows of previous years, the direction of travel has improved confidence and affordability, particularly for second time buyers and those trading up within the York market.
Pricing remains a key factor in January. Properties that are launched with realistic asking prices and presented to a high standard are achieving good levels of interest and, in many cases, securing offers within the early weeks of marketing. Homes that are overpriced or require significant work continue to take longer to attract committed buyers, reinforcing the importance of accurate pricing and considered presentation.
The upper end of the market has remained cautious, with demand focused on quality homes offering space, character and long term suitability. Popular school catchments, city centre accessibility and established residential areas continue to drive buyer decision making.
York’s rental market has also begun the year strongly. Demand from professionals, relocators and students remains high, with limited supply supporting rental values and low void periods. Landlords who prioritise presentation, maintenance and compliance are seeing particularly strong tenant interest.
Looking ahead to the coming months, the outlook for 2026 is one of steady and measured growth rather than rapid change. Buyer confidence is improving, transactions are expected to increase gradually and pricing is likely to remain stable with modest upward movement over the course of the year.
January has set a positive tone for the year ahead getting off to a bust start. While buyers remain discerning, the fundamentals of the York market continue to provide a solid platform for both sellers and purchasers as 2026 progresses.