Should I buy a property NOW or wait till the end of 2025?
For many potential homebuyers and investors, the big question is often not just if but when to buy property. Although waiting for a "better" time can sometimes pay off, 2024 presents unique conditions that could make it advantageous to buy now rather than waiting until the end of 2025. Here are some key factors to consider.
1. Interest Rates May Peak Soon but Remain High for a While
The Bank of England has implemented several interest rate hikes over the past few years to tackle rising inflation. While inflation has shown signs of stabilising, rates remain historically high. Analysts predict that the Bank of England may hold these elevated rates steady through much of 2024, but there’s no clear consensus on when rates might begin to drop significantly.
Waiting another year and a half for rates to fall substantially might not bring the payoff that some buyers are hoping for. While waiting for potential rate cuts, buyers also risk facing increased demand once rates do drop, which could drive prices higher as more buyers flood the market. Locking in a mortgage rate now—even if it's slightly higher than historic lows—could bring stability and allow for potential refinancing down the road if rates eventually decline.
2. Price Corrections May Have Already Occurred
The UK housing market has been softening due to the combination of rising mortgage rates, inflation, and economic uncertainty. According to recent reports, many regions have experienced price reductions or, at the very least, a slowdown in price growth. This “correction” in the market may present an opportunity for buyers to negotiate better deals now, as sellers adjust their expectations.
The risk in waiting until late 2025 is that once interest rates stabilise or start decreasing, demand may increase again, which could cause prices to climb. Buying now during a period of price correction or stagnation means that buyers may benefit from a dip that will be less likely in a more stable future market.
3. Government Policies and Incentives
In response to housing demand and economic challenges, the UK government frequently adjusts housing policies and incentives. Some initiatives, like reduced stamp duty, have historically boosted buyer interest. Although no new initiatives are promised, current policy remains favourable to first-time buyers, with incentives available in various forms.
The UK had a General Election where the Labour government have entered into power. With a new government, enter new regulations and tax changes.Thus, buyers who act now are at least assured of the current incentives, whereas those who wait may find themselves in an altered political and economic environment where incentives are more limited or less favourable.
4. Rising Rents Make Buying More Attractive
Rent prices in the UK have been on an upward trend, exacerbated by high demand and limited rental supply. According to recent data, rental prices have hit record highs in various regions, with many tenants spending significant portions of their income on rent. For renters considering the switch to homeownership, buying now can be a hedge against further rent hikes, as a mortgage—while subject to interest rate fluctuations—can still provide more predictability than rental increases over time.
Given that rent prices may continue rising over the next two years, buying a property now could lead to considerable savings over renting, even if mortgage rates remain higher than they were during recent years of historically low interest rates.
5. A Limited Supply of Homes May Boost Competition in the Future
The UK’s housing market is characterised by a chronic undersupply of homes. With new-build rates below target, there simply aren’t enough properties coming to market to meet demand, especially in sought-after locations. As a result, any uptick in demand—due to lower interest rates or a return of economic confidence—could lead to intense competition.
Buying a property now, before a potential post-2025 demand increase, offers buyers an opportunity to secure a home without having to contend with significantly increased competition. With the current market conditions, there is likely to be less pressure on buyers, giving them more time to make considered decisions and negotiate on price.
6. The Long-Term Perspective: Property as a Resilient Asset
Historically, UK property has proven to be a resilient investment, even during economic downturns. Over time, house prices have generally shown consistent growth, making property one of the most reliable assets for wealth-building. For long-term investors or buyers planning to stay in a property for several years, the current market provides an opportunity to buy at a relative lull, then benefit from future appreciation.
Even if there are short-term fluctuations or slowdowns, property in the UK tends to appreciate over time. For buyers focused on the long-term benefits, entering the market now with this perspective may prove more advantageous than holding off in hopes of perfect timing.
Conclusion: Make a Move Based on Your Goals
Timing the market perfectly is nearly impossible. While there are risks to buying now, the benefits—including potential price corrections, existing government incentives, and avoiding future competition—may outweigh them for many buyers. Waiting until the end of 2025 could mean facing higher prices and a more competitive market.
For those who are financially prepared and ready to buy, 2024 may offer a valuable opportunity to secure a property at favourable terms in a market environment that’s likely more flexible than it will be in the future. If you are looking for the perfect property for you, why not check out what we have in stock through the link below:
https://www.rightmove.co.uk/property-for-sale/find.html?locationIdentifier=BRANCH%5E89911&sortType=6&propertyTypes=&includeSSTC=true&mustHave=&dontShow=&furnishTypes=&keywords=#prop152852207