Housing Insight Report: January 2026

Buyer activity and sales agreed picked up this month as the housing market entered the spring season, with increased stock levels giving consumers more choice despite ongoing affordability pressures. Meanwhile, the rental market remained highly competitive, as tenant demand continued to outstrip supply and concerns over future regulation weighed on landlord confidence.

Published on 14 May 2026, the survey looks at renters’ satisfaction, tenancy security, eviction practices, barriers to renting, and complaints handling. It shows that many tenants report positive experiences, but there are still clear pressure points, especially for people receiving housing support, households with a long-term illness or disability, and renters who need to raise a complaint. The key test will be whether the Act raises standards, improves enforcement, supports effective redress, and ensures landlords and agents have the confidence to keep providing homes.

The housing market shows steady activity, ongoing challenges with sales agreed rising slightly and stock levels stable, while affordability pressures and longer transaction times continue to strain buyers and sellers. Demand is strong in the rental sector, with significant competition among tenants despite only a modest increase in available properties. Rents have remained relatively stable month to month.

Prioritising clear, proactive communication, ensuring transparent agreements and fees, and keeping robust records of actions and transactions are the top ways agents can reduce the likelihood of complaints escalating to formal disputes in an increasingly regulated housing market. The findings from The Property Ombudsman (TPO) reinforce the value of strong training, clear processes, and high service standards in maintaining trust with consumers and protecting the reputation of the sector.