February 2026 Home Listings on Course for 10-Year High

Home Listings Surge to Decade High

The number of newly-listed homes for sale is on track to be the highest in a decade, according to Zoopla's latest House Price Index. This surge in supply is creating more choice for buyers across the UK, particularly in a market that has been constrained by limited stock in recent years.

First-time buyers are benefiting the most from the wider selection of homes available. According to Zoopla, 40% of properties are now cheaper to buy than rent — up from just 25% a year ago. This calculation assumes a 20% deposit, but even with smaller deposits the affordability gap is narrowing.

House price growth remains slow, with prices up just 1.3% over the last 12 months to the end of January. Rising supply is expected to keep prices in check, with 6% more homes currently for sale compared to a year ago. This figure is likely to increase further as spring — traditionally one of the busiest times for new listings — gets underway.

Average Mortgage Rates Dip Below 4%

Average mortgage rates for new loans are at their lowest level in four years, with rates on both two-year and five-year fixed deals now below 4% for the first time since 2022. However, rates remain well above the ultra-low levels seen in 2021.

The easing of mortgage rates in recent months has been driven by lower base rates and increased competition between lenders. Many lenders have also relaxed their affordability criteria, with borrowers typically needing to prove they can afford a higher stress-tested rate of 6.5%, down from 8.5% a year ago.

The bigger a deposit you can save, the wider the range of competitive mortgage deals you'll usually be able to access. However, it's important to weigh up the overall cost of any deal — including arrangement fees — rather than focusing solely on headline rates.

What This Means for Buyers

The combination of increased supply, subdued price growth, and lower mortgage rates creates one of the most favourable buying environments in recent years — especially for first-time buyers who have been squeezed by affordability constraints.

If you're thinking about getting on the property ladder or moving home, now could be an excellent time to explore your options. Our fee-free mortgage advisors can help you understand exactly how much you could borrow and find the most competitive deal for your circumstances.