Local estate agency Gascoigne Halman is gearing up for a busy start to 2026 and encouraging residents to act now to unlock the opportunities the New Year could bring.
Rightmove reports that last Christmas saw an 11% increase in new homes hitting the market compared to the previous year, and early indicators suggest an even bigger surge as we enter 2026. Dubbed the ‘Boxing Day Bounce,” this seasonal spike reflects a flurry of buyer and seller activity post Christmas. The recent cut in interest rates by the Bank of England from 4% to 3.75% is expected to give homeowners and first-time buyers a welcome boost, further supporting this anticipated surge in market activity. With renewed momentum and record levels of online property searches expected, now could be the perfect time to turn moving plans into reality.
Time for a fresh start
Many homeowners reach a point where their current home no longer fits their lifestyle: perhaps your space feels tighter than it used to, your needs have evolved, or your family has simply outgrown your existing layout. As the year draws to a close, these thoughts often come into focus and with them comes an exciting question: could the New Year be the perfect time to find a home that truly works for you?
“We often see a noticeable change in mindset as the year comes to a close,” says John Halman, chairman of Gascoigne Halman. “People aren’t necessarily rushing to move, but they are thinking more clearly about what they want from their home and their lifestyle. The New Year brings focus, and that’s when well-planned moves really start to take shape.”
Why the New Year is a pivotal moment in property
The beginning of the year often brings fresh energy to the housing market as buyers return with clear intentions, sellers feel ready to make a move and homes listed at this time can really shine without the competition that builds later in the spring.
Whether you are drawn to a character home in Cheshire, a lively neighbourhood in South Manchester, or a peaceful retreat in the High Peak, the early weeks of the year offer a valuable window of opportunity. With fewer buyers competing for the same properties, there is time to explore options carefully, while sellers benefit from strong interest and a more focused audience.
A head start for buyers
Viewing homes in winter gives a real sense of how they work day-to-day, from natural light and warmth to layout and flow, so sellers who choose to market at this time are usually well prepared and motivated. This organisation can encourage buyers to turn intentions into action and find a home that really fits their lifestyle.
A timely opportunity for sellers
For sellers, launching your home in the New Year means tapping into early demand, when fewer properties are available and homes naturally stand out. Buyers at this time of year tend to be organised and ready to move, which can lead to clearer negotiations and more straightforward timelines, and across Cheshire, South Manchester and the High Peak, an early start allows sellers to set the pace for their move and approach the year ahead with confidence.
Expert guidance you can trust
At Gascoigne Halman, our teams live and work in the communities that we operate in, from vibrant South Manchester neighbourhoods to Cheshire market towns and High Peak villages. That local insight, combined with a clear understanding of market trends, allows us to offer practical, thoughtful advice at every stage of your property journey.
As the New Year approaches, it is a natural time to reflect on what you want from your next move and with trusted local expertise and a genuine passion for finding the right home, our team of experts at Gascoigne Halman will deliver support wherever your next move takes you.
