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New research from Zoopla has revealed a growing divide in Britain’s housing market, with homes in some areas selling almost seven times faster than those elsewhere.
Although the national average time taken to find a buyer remained unchanged at 42 days in the year to July 2026, this figure hides significant regional differences. Around half of the 363 local authority areas assessed are now taking longer to sell than they did a year ago.
Falkirk recorded the fastest market, where homes typically secured a buyer in just 11 days. At the other end of the scale, properties in Melton took an average of 76 days.
How is the local market performing?
Within the East of England, Rochford was the fastest-performing area, with sellers finding a buyer in approximately 33 days. South Norfolk was the slowest in the region at 58 days.
Higher mortgage rates and wider economic uncertainty are encouraging some buyers to adopt a “wait and see” approach. However, the figures demonstrate that property markets can vary considerably between neighbouring towns—not simply between regions.
It is important to remember that these figures measure the time between a property being listed and a sale being agreed. They do not include the additional conveyancing, mortgage and survey stages needed before completion.
What does this mean for sellers?
In a slower or more competitive market, presenting and pricing your property correctly from the outset becomes particularly important.
Sellers should consider:
- Setting a realistic asking price based on recent local sales.
- Completing routine maintenance before marketing.
- Addressing obvious damp, roof, drainage or structural concerns.
- Gathering guarantees, planning approvals and Building Regulations documentation.
- Instructing a conveyancer early to reduce avoidable delays.
- Considering a pre-sale survey to identify problems before a buyer does.
A property that appears well maintained and has its paperwork readily available may give buyers greater confidence and help reduce delays or renegotiations later in the transaction.
What should buyers consider in a fast-moving market?
A competitive market can create pressure to make quick decisions, but speed should not replace proper due diligence.
A mortgage valuation is primarily prepared for the lender and should not be treated as a detailed assessment of the property’s condition. An independent home survey can identify defects, maintenance liabilities and matters requiring further investigation before contracts are exchanged.
Even when a property attracts several offers, buyers should still allow sufficient time for an appropriate survey, legal enquiries and any recommended specialist checks.
Local knowledge remains essential
National market statistics provide a useful overview, but property conditions and demand can differ considerably from one town—or even one street—to another.
Whether a home sells in a matter of days or remains on the market for several months, obtaining clear information about its condition can help both buyers and sellers proceed with greater confidence.
Ashton Lee Surveyors provides independent Level 2 and Level 3 home surveys throughout Essex, London and the surrounding areas. Our reports include clear photographs, practical recommendations and a dedicated summary of matters for your conveyancer.
If you are buying a property or preparing your home for sale, contact Ashton Lee Surveyors to discuss the most suitable survey.
Figures are based on Zoopla research reported in August 2026 and measure the time from first listing to a sale being agreed. Sky News and Estate Agent Today.
