Prime Resi, 19/12/25

Acquisition agency flags 12 buying trends to watch in 2026

Quoting James Greenwood, Clare Coode, Ed Jephson, Nick Cunningham, James Law and Sara Ransom of Stacks Property Finders

Properties with potential:

James Greenwood of Stacks Property Search says, “In the current climate, with budgets being squeezed, more buyers will be looking for a property that offers good value, but that has potential and hidden promise. Not massive renovations, but small projects that will make a big difference, and can be done ‘in due course’, rather than immediately. They’ll be looking for properties that have awkward layouts that can be improved; that have potential for a loft conversion; where the kitchen can be opened-up into the garden; or where the garage can be integrated into the living accommodation – all game-changers in terms of value and lifestyle, but not overly disruptive. Small changes, big gains – in both value and day-to-day enjoyment.”

Annexes:

Nick Cunningham of Stacks Property Search says: “A combination of factors — high interest rates and rising living costs — means demand for annexes will continue to grow. Buyers increasingly want flexibility: space for adult children who haven’t quite flown the nest; occasional accommodation for relatives or guests; a permanent home for elderly family members; or rooms for a nanny or au pair. If finances tighten, such spaces can also provide valuable rental income.”

Walkability
James Law of Stacks Property Search says, “Awareness of the ‘15-minute neighbourhood’ is growing, and buyers are increasingly prioritising homes within walking distance of what matters to them — whether that’s a café, park, shop, pub, school, public transport, or dog-walking routes.”

Bedroom-to-bathroom ratio
Clare Coode of Stacks Property Search says, “Once upon a time, one bathroom and a cloakroom were deemed sufficient for a four-bedroom home. Then buyers wanted an en suite for the main bedroom, a family bathroom and a cloakroom. Appetite for bathrooms continues to rise, and many buyers are increasingly reluctant to compromise. Partners often prefer not to share bath or shower space, and will frequently look to convert a small fifth bedroom into an extra bathroom.”

Properties in national parks
Ed Jephson of Stacks Property Search says: “National parks will only grow in popularity as buyers look for a slower way of life; an environment that isn’t constantly changing; and a rhythm and pace reminiscent of earlier times. The value of these places is steadily increasing, as is an old-fashioned sense of community.”

London flats in modern developments
Sara Ransom of Stacks Property Search says: “Modern developments often offer excellent security — entry systems, CCTV and concierge services — which provide considerable peace of mind. High-end schemes may also include gyms, pools, bike storage, cafés, cinemas, communal gardens and co-working spaces. Busy professionals who travel frequently for work or leisure will be increasingly drawn to the convenience and lifestyle these developments provide, as will single buyers who value their security, community and sociability.”

Energy-efficient homes
Ed Jephson says: “As awareness of energy efficiency, climate change and environmental impact grows — alongside evolving legislation — green credentials and a strong EPC rating will become ever more important, particularly for buyers who have no appetite for renovating. High-quality insulation, double or triple glazing, and efficient heating systems such as heat pumps and solar panels will be strong selling points. Smart-home technology that supports energy management will also become more desirable.”

Flexible living and layout:

Clare Coode says, “Open plan spaces are attractive, but they can be limiting for families who need independent space for solitary activities So hybrid layouts that can be closed off or opened up will be highly sought-after. The once-neglected box room — previously a dumping ground for suitcases, outdated clothes and old paperwork — will become increasingly valuable as a Zoom room, yoga or meditation space, or simply a nook to escape from the family.”

“Hybrid working is on a slow decline, but most households with working family members need an office space of some kind.”

Outdoor and green space:

Ed Jephson says, “Well-designed outdoor space will be top of many buyers’ priority lists. A garden should be cleverly laid out to offer a variety of outdoor rooms – somewhere to play, grow, entertain, relax, drink, contemplate. Layout, aspect and privacy of the garden will be considered almost as carefully as interior floor plans, as buyers figure out how to arrange the space to suit their needs.”

Natural light:

Clare Coode says, “Light sells. Big windows with a view that draws you towards the outside, windows seats, conservatories and roof lights. Natural light is good for body and soul.”

Peace:

Rachel Johnston of Stacks Property Search says, “With more people working from home, tranquillity is becoming non-negotiable. Peace doesn’t have to mean remote, but proximity to traffic, schools, pubs or flight paths are becoming red flags.”

And finally…..a partridge in a pear tree….

James Greenwood says, “Buyers will become more aware of the joy of an orchard. They are beautiful places, they can be big or small, they’re relatively low-maintenance, and a variety of fabulous edible fruits can be grown – for immediate consumption, pickling, turning into juice or wine, or making jams and chutneys. At harvest-time you can keep armies of children busy for days.

“Every orchard should have at least one apple, one plum, one cherry, a medlar, a quince, and of course a pear – for the partridge to perch in on the first day of Christmas.”

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