After a fairly flat 2025, housing experts expect the market to find its feet in 2026. Most forecasts, including Rightmove, suggest that asking prices could rise by around 2% nationally this year — steady, not sensational.
Nationwide takes a similar view, predicting around 2–4% growth, helped by gradually improving affordability as mortgage rates begin to ease. However, cost-of-living pressures, wider economic uncertainty and memories of recent rate rises mean many buyers are still cautious, taking longer to decide and refusing to overstretch.
Locally, Warwickshire has historically performed slightly above the national average, so modest growth in 2026 feels realistic — but it remains a measured, value-conscious market.
And that’s exactly why strategy is more important than ever.
What strategy really meansWith Courtney Downing Estates, strategy isn’t guesswork — it’s about doing the right things, deliberately:
- Pricing with purpose – All of our valuations are based on real local data and live buyer demand, designed to attract strong early interest rather than chasing reductions later.
- Premium presentation – We utilise professional photography and carefully written listings to make properties stand out on portals and help buyers emotionally connect with the property.
- Attended viewings – We attend all viewings, meaning we are on hand to answer questions, point out a properties best features, and give reassurance. The result: more interest and stronger offers.
- Flexible availability – We are available during the evenings and at weekends, so serious buyers can view when it genuinely suits them — preventing missed opportunities.
- Hands-on negotiation & progression – once an offer is agreed, we stay involved, managing chains, liaising with solicitors and resolving issues early to reduce the risk of fall-throughs.
Why this matters nowToday’s buyers compare everything, assess affordability carefully and won’t overpay.
So the homes that perform best are the ones that are:
- Priced intelligently
- Presented brilliantly
- Supported by proactive communication
The takeaway2026 isn’t a market where you simply “list and hope.” It’s a market where you plan, prepare — and execute well. And that’s exactly where we create real value.
