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May was a significant month for the UK housing market, marked by two bank holidays, a long-anticipated drop in the Bank of England base rate, and a record influx of property listings. The result? A market that’s busy, but nuanced.

At McHugo Homes, we believe in cutting through the noise to provide clear, data-driven insights. Whether you’re planning to move, currently marketing your property, or simply monitoring the landscape, here’s what you need to know.

‘Available Properties’ are up, but sales are selective

The overall supply of homes has surged, particularly in Harborne, where listings have increased by nearly 17% compared to May 2024, the highest inventory level in over a decade.

However, it's important to note that new listings are actually down 26% year-on-year, suggesting that much of the current available properties have been on the market for a while. This speaks to a key market dynamic: many homes are available, arethey selling?!

Sales agreed rose 33% in May, indicating that demand is robust — but conditional. Potential buyers are highly discerning and unwilling to compromise. The consequence? More price reductions, longer time on the market, and sellers needing to remain agile.

Spotlight on B17 and B15: contrasting local trends

B17 (Harborne)

  • Homes for sale: 319

  • Sales agreed: 57

  • Average asking prices: Up 10% year-on-year

Harborne (B17) continues to perform, with solid buyer interest and active sales — provided homes are well-presented and competitively priced.

B15 (Edgbaston)

  • Houses for sale: 88

  • Sales agreed: 8

  • Average asking prices: Up 13% year-on-year

By contrast, Edgbaston houses in B15 have experienced a notable slowdown in transactions. Despite price growth, sales volume has softened, a reminder that micro-market behaviour can vary significantly, even between neighbouring postcodes.

Price Sensitivity is Heightened

Nationally, over 100,000 price reductions were recorded in May, a 60% increase on last year.

Importantly, this does not suggest that home values are in decline. Sellers who priced accurately from the outset achieved 11% more on average than in May 2024. The takeaway? Strategic pricing is more critical than ever. Overpriced properties risk stagnating, leading to reduced buyer confidence, delayed sales, and potential fall-throughs.

What This Means for Sellers

The market is active, but it's also highly competitive. With mortgage rates now often below 4%, affordability has improved — but buyers are using that leverage to be more selective.

Gone are the days of speculative overpricing. Success in the current market depends on:

  • Realistic, data-backed pricing
  • Immaculate presentation
  • Strategic marketing that cuts through a crowded landscape

The Harborne and Edgbaston property market in June 2025 presents both opportunities and challenges. While increased supply and improved mortgage conditions have energised activity, buyers remain cautious and value-driven. For sellers, this means aligning with current market expectations is essential, not only to stand out but to achieve the best possible outcome.

At McHugo Homes, we continue to monitor the market closely, helping our clients make informed decisions in a shifting landscape. Whether you're buying, selling, or simply staying informed, understanding these trends is key to navigating today’s property market with confidence.