Welcome back to the Ted Hoskins blog! If you’ve been keeping an eye on the property headlines lately, you’ll know that the 2026 London property market is giving everyone plenty to talk about. From fluctuating mortgage rates to shifting buyer habits and major regulatory changes, there is a lot to digest.
As a family-run agent that has been looking after properties in Battersea, Kensington, and across Central London since 1978, we’ve seen every market cycle imaginable. The secret to navigating times like these? Looking past the dramatic national headlines and understanding exactly what is happening on your local streets.
Here is our breakdown of the recent property news and what it actually means for you.
1. The Sales Market: A Buyer’s Paradise in Inner London
If you are looking to buy, or if you’re an investor looking to expand your portfolio, the current climate presents a unique window of opportunity.
According to the latest data from Zoopla and regional trackers, we are firmly in a buyer’s market across London and the South.
- More Choice, Less Urgency: Average estate agent stock is at its highest level in eight years. Buyers have plenty of properties to choose from and are taking their time to do their research before making an offer. According to Zoopla 60% of properties that entered sales market in January 2026 have still not sold.
- The Inner vs. Outer Split: Interestingly, the market is moving at two different speeds. While northern regions of the UK and outer London boroughs are seeing modest price growth, inner London prices have softened.
- The Flat Market: Higher-value inner London flats are facing the most pressure, with prices sitting below their pre-pandemic peaks.
Our Take for Sellers: Serious buyers are out there, but they are highly selective. Pricing your property realistically from day one is absolutely vital. Overpriced homes are sitting on the market much longer, whereas accurately priced properties in Battersea and Kensington are still moving steadily.
2. Mortgages: Easing, But Realism is Key
The “seasonal spring bounce” was cut a little short this year due to global economic factors and domestic political uncertainty, which pushed average mortgage rates up toward 5% in April.
The good news? Rates have already started to edge downward, averaging around 4.8%. While we aren’t returning to the ultra-low rates of five years ago, the steadying of these figures is helping to bring stability back into the market. First-time buyers remain remarkably resilient, making up a significant portion of current market activity thanks to more flexible, high-loan-to-value lending options.
3. The Lettings Market: Landlords and the Renters’ Rights Bill
For our landlords, the rental market across Central London remains fundamentally strong due to structural undersupply—there are simply more tenants looking for high-quality homes than there are properties available. However, the biggest news on everyone’s radar is the Renters’ Rights Bill.
This legislation represents the biggest shake-up to the private rented sector in a generation. It aims to alter tenancy structures, change how evictions are handled, and phase out fixed-term tenancies.
While change can feel daunting, it’s important to remember that high-quality, responsible landlords have very little to fear. The market currently rewards the patient landlords. The demand for well-managed London homes isn’t going anywhere.
Our experts at Ted Hoskins Ltd are happy to answer any questions landlords have.
Ted Hoskins Your trusted Estate Agent in Battersea and Kensington
