As we head into autumn, the property market is showing signs of becoming a little more active after a quieter summer.
Across the UK, buyers are returning to the market, but they are taking their time and being more selective about what they buy. For sellers, that means pricing and presentation remain important. For buyers, there is more choice and greater opportunity to find the right property.
Here at JW Wood, we know that national figures only tell part of the story. Property markets can vary considerably from one area to the next, which is why understanding what is happening locally is so important.
So, what does the latest data tell us about the market and, in particular, County Durham?
Buyer activity is beginning to pick up
According to Zoopla's latest House Price Index, searches for homes are now 7% higher than a year ago, suggesting that more people are starting to make plans after the summer slowdown.
However, buyers are taking longer to make decisions. The number of sales agreed remains 6% below last year, while buyers currently have around 5% more homes to choose from.
For sellers, this makes accurate pricing particularly important. A property that is realistically priced and well presented is more likely to attract attention from today's more considered buyers.
County Durham continues to perform well
The local picture is encouraging.
The latest official figures show that the average house price in County Durham was £138,000 in June 2026, up 7% compared with the previous year.
That compares with annual growth of 4.3% across the wider North East, meaning County Durham has seen stronger price growth than the regional average.
Of course, an average figure doesn't tell the whole story. Property values can vary significantly depending on the town, village, property type, size and condition.
That's why local knowledge matters when establishing what your own home could realistically achieve.
Buyers have more choice – but good homes still stand out
One of the key themes emerging from the current market is choice.
With more properties available, buyers can afford to take their time and compare homes before making an offer. This doesn't mean there aren't serious buyers out there – far from it – but they are looking more carefully at value.
For sellers, this means the basics really matter:
- Setting a realistic asking price
- Making sure the property is well presented
- Using good-quality photography
- Making the most of the property's best features
- Having the right marketing strategy
Getting these things right can make a significant difference when buyers have plenty of alternatives.
What about mortgage rates?
Affordability remains an important consideration for buyers.
Higher mortgage rates have reduced purchasing power during 2026, with Zoopla estimating that buyers' purchasing power has fallen by around 9% since January.
However, the Bank of England base rate currently stands at 3.75%, following reductions earlier in the year, which should provide some support for buyers compared with the higher rates seen previously.
For anyone considering a move, it remains important to understand what you can comfortably afford rather than simply focusing on the headline property price.
The rental market remains active
The rental market continues to be an important part of the property picture.
Zoopla's latest rental data shows that the average UK rent for a new let reached £1,321 in June 2026, an annual increase of 2.1%. However, rental growth varies considerably across the country, with more affordable areas generally seeing stronger increases.
The North East remains one of the UK's most affordable regions for renters, with average rents of around £766 per month, while rental growth was 3.9% over the year.
County Durham is also seeing continued rental growth. The latest ONS figures put the average private rent at £645 per month in July 2026, up 6% on the previous year.
For landlords, this highlights the importance of keeping rents in line with the local market while continuing to offer tenants good-quality homes and a professional service.
More choice doesn't mean less competition
For tenants, there is some positive news.
Rental supply has improved compared with the exceptionally tight conditions seen in recent years, although Zoopla estimates that the number of homes available to rent remains around 25% below pre-pandemic levels.
This means competition has eased, but good-quality, well-priced rental properties can still attract plenty of interest.
For landlords, understanding the local rental market and presenting a property well remain key to attracting and retaining good tenants.
So, what does this mean for you?
The current market isn't one where buyers or sellers should feel they need to rush.
Instead, it is a market where good preparation, realistic pricing and sound local advice can make a real difference.
If you're thinking of selling
There are buyers looking, but they are more selective. Getting the price right from the outset and presenting your property well can help it stand out.
If you're thinking of buying
There is more choice than there has been for some time, giving you an opportunity to take your time, compare properties and negotiate where appropriate.
If you're a landlord
Rental demand remains steady and rents continue to rise, particularly in more affordable areas. However, keeping up with changing legislation and understanding your local market is more important than ever.
If you're thinking of renting
There is more choice than during the height of the rental boom, but demand for good-quality homes remains strong. Being ready to move quickly when the right property becomes available can still be important.
Looking Ahead to Autumn
The property market rarely moves in a straight line, and national statistics don't always reflect what is happening on your doorstep.
The latest figures suggest that the market is becoming more active as we move into autumn, with buyer interest picking up and County Durham continuing to show encouraging price growth.
At JW Wood, we've been helping people across County Durham and the North East buy, sell and rent property for generations. Our local teams understand that every property and every move is different.
If you're thinking about moving, letting or simply want to understand what your property could be worth in today's market, we're always happy to have a conversation.
Get in touch with your local JW Wood team for friendly, expert advice and a free, no-obligation valuation.
Sources from Zoopla and Move IQ