UK estate agency branches saw a steady month in both sales and lettings activity in March 2026, with key indicators showing modest growth in demand and instruction levels across the board.
On the sales side, the average number of agreed sales per member branch edged up to 8.14, while branches typically had around 10.1 properties listed for sale during the month.
Buyer demand also strengthened slightly, with the average number of new prospective buyers registering per branch rising to 78. Viewing activity picked up as well, averaging 2.8 viewings per available property, up on the previous month.
Nathan Emerson, CEO Propertymark, commented: “March was a month that delivered some encouraging signs across the housing market, with sales agreed, buyer registrations and viewing activity all moving in a positive direction as we entered the traditionally busier spring period. Although inflation remained above target and global economic pressures continued to influence sentiment, we saw many buyers adapting to current borrowing conditions and proceeding where pricing expectations were realistic.
“We also saw improved levels of stock entering the market, which was helping to provide consumers with greater choice and creating a more balanced environment in some areas. However, affordability pressures continued to weigh heavily for many households, particularly as mortgage rates remained sensitive to wider economic events.
In lettings, instruction levels showed a small increase, with the average number of new fully managed properties coming to market rising to 4.5 per branch.
Market conditions on rents were broadly stable. Around 57% of agents reported rents remaining unchanged, while 28% saw increases and 15% recorded falls.
Void periods averaged 3.3 weeks across member branches, indicating relatively steady rental turnover. Arrears issues remained limited, although the proportion of agents reporting problems edged up slightly to 2.2%.
Emerson added: “Within the lettings sector, demand continued to significantly outpace supply despite a modest uplift in available stock. Many agents were reporting ongoing concern from landlords surrounding future regulatory changes, which were influencing investment decisions and contributing to longer-term supply challenges. Ensuring a stable and sustainable private rented sector remains essential to supporting tenants and maintaining choice across the market.”
