Buyer Behaviour Ahead of the Budget- Why Caution is Creeping In

 With the Autumn Budget 2025 set for 26 November, buyers are being more cautious, and there are good reasons for that.

 What’s happening:

• Nearly half of first-time buyers say they are delaying their purchase plans until after the Budget announcement. ¹
• Some of this pause is linked to tax-policy uncertainty: rumours are circulating about major changes to stamp duty, council tax, capital gains tax, and property-sale taxes. ²
• Market data show small increases in house prices, but also suggest that some buyers are waiting instead of acting right away. For example, the average home price dropped a bit in September compared to August. ³

Why this matters for you:

• If you’re thinking about buying, you might have a bit more time to plan, but waiting has its risks. If the changes are good, you could miss out on deals. If they’re not, it might be harder to afford a home.
• If you’re selling, you might see a slower market because fewer buyers are ready to act before the budget. It’s important to keep your pricing and expectations realistic.
• If you’re an investor, tax changes could affect your returns, especially if there are changes to Capital Gains Tax, new property taxes, or stamp duty. It’s smart to plan for different scenarios now.

Outlook

This pause could be positive. When the market takes time to reflect and check facts, decisions are often more thoughtful and less driven by fear or hype. Instead of rushing, you can get ready. Use this time to organise your finances, learn about your options, and be prepared to act when things become clearer.

¹ https://www.property118.com/first-time-buyers-hit-pause-until-the-autumn-budget/

² https://www.setfords.co.uk/2025/10/22/what-can-homebuyers-expect-2025-autumn-budget/

³ https://www.theguardian.com/money/2025/oct/07/uk-house-prices-buyers-budget-halifax?