Confidence Holds in the South West Despite Autumn Budget Hesitation
The Autumn Budget will be announced on 26 November 2025, and it has created a natural pause for many people considering their next move in the property market. There has been plenty of speculation about what the Chancellor may include, particularly around capital gains tax, income tax and even the possibility of a new wealth tax. Understandably, this has made some buyers and sellers more cautious.
However, the local market in the South West is telling a more encouraging story.
Putting the Tax Debate into Context
Capital gains tax reform could be on the agenda, but it is important to remember this would only affect the circa. 3% of households (according to the English Housing Survey 2021–22) that own a second home. For most people buying or selling their main home, any changes will not apply directly.
Talk of wider taxation is also weighing on sentiment. Yet history shows that the housing market has always found ways to adapt and move forward, even during times of fiscal change, and in the South West, local activity suggests people are continuing to make decisions with confidence.
September Brings Its Seasonal Lift
Each year, September is one of the busiest months in the property calendar, and this year is no exception. Our data shows that property valuations carried out by our teams in the South West rose by 21% month-on-month, and property viewings increased by 14% month-on-month.
For a more like-for-like comparison, the year-on-year change for September is reassuring, yet modest. Compared with the same period last year, valuations are up by 6%, viewings have risen by 2% and the total number of active buyers on our database is 11% higher than a year ago. Currently, we have 18 buyers registered for every available property, in comparison to 13.8 in 2024. These figures confirm that sellers are tentatively considering a move, while buyers remain motivated to find the right property.
Prices Remain Steady and Reliable
According to the latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (July), UK house prices have increased by 2.7% over the past year. In the South West, prices have risen at a slower pace, with an increase of 1.4%, which is moderate but stable and encouraging for buyers, who may be factoring in additional cost-of-living expenses.
A Market with Underlying Strength
Despite the headlines surrounding the upcoming Budget, the South West property market continues to show strength. Families still need more space, people are still relocating for work, and lifestyle changes remain an important driver, especially here, where quality of life is such a strong attraction. And a steady demand for rental property also makes the area attractive to investors seeking a safe return.
What we are seeing on the ground is activity, motivation and resilience. While some are waiting for more clarity from Westminster, many others are pressing ahead and making confident decisions.
For those thinking about their next move, the message is clear. The South West remains an active and positive market, with steady prices and strong demand. If you’re considering your options in the current climate and would like more detailed insights about the property market, I’d love to hear from you.
