August the month of moving: A look at rising homebuyer enquiries across the UK during a hot month for homebuyers

Summer is an alluring time, with longer days, more favourable weather and the fact more of us are on holiday often prompting people to consider a change of scenery. This sentiment plays out in the statistics – which have long shown that August is the busiest month for house moves in the UK, and the last Friday of the month the busiest day.

Looking through our data, we can see that plays out across enquiries too – with a significant uptick in enquiries right across the UK when looking at things month on month. But which areas see the highest interest during August?

Let’s take a look at some of the most highly sought after counties during the peak of summer…

• West Yorkshire has seen the most substantial rise, with a remarkable 46.24% increase in enquiries. This significant spike indicates a strong demand in the area, potentially driven by its mix of urban and rural appeal.
• Lincolnshire follows closely with a 44.69% increase. Known for its countryside charm and affordable property prices, Lincolnshire’s popularity seems to be growing among those seeking a quieter, more spacious lifestyle.
• Devon, with its stunning coastal landscapes and often favourable weather, experienced a 35.52% rise in enquiries. The appeal of coastal living – no doubt boosted by holidaymakers envisioning a more permanent stay – combined with a desire for more space, appears to be driving this trend.
• Kent and Northamptonshire also saw notable increases, with 34.27% and 29.41% respectively. Both regions offer a blend of rural and suburban living, making them attractive options for families and professionals alike – with London’s commutability another factor.
• Merseyside and Essex witnessed similar surges, with 29.22% and 22.27% increases in enquiries. These areas, known for their vibrant communities and proximity to major cities, continue to draw interest from homebuyers.
• Similarly, the West Midlands saw an increase of 22.81% – with the cosmopolitan pull of no doubt Birmingham a key factor.
• Surrey and London recorded more modest increases of 13.11% and 7.22% respectively. Despite these lower percentages, the sheer volume of enquiries in these highly sought-after areas remains significant.

Several factors contribute to the August surge in both homebuyer enquiries and house moves. The school holidays provide families with the flexibility to house hunt and move without disrupting children's education. Additionally, the desire to settle into a new home before winter starts to rear its head, while the forthcoming festive season (everyone wants to be in by Christmas!) also plays a role. This, combined with favourable weather (which makes for easier moving on the day) and the end-of-summer rush creates a perfect storm for those looking to secure their dream home.

The August uptick in homebuyer enquiries across the UK is a clear indicator of the dynamic nature of the housing market. Whether it’s the lure of the countryside, the appeal of coastal living, or the desire for more space, buyers use this month to take action, which drives significant activity in the market. If you’re considering a move then, now might be the ideal time to join the wave and explore the opportunities that August brings.

As we continue to monitor these trends, one thing is certain: the demand for new homes is robust, and the market is thriving, making it an exciting time for both buyers and sellers alike.

Last updated August 15th, 2024

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