Rightmove has recorded its busiest ever Boxing Day for visits, surpassing its record set in 2024.
Visits to Rightmove nearly doubled with an increase of 93% from the quietest day of the year Christmas Day into Boxing Day.
The number of people sending enquiries to estate agents to go and view homes for sale increased by 67% in the five days after Christmas compared to the five days before Christmas.
Meanwhile, the number of new properties being listed for sale on Rightmove more than doubled with a rise of 143% in the five days after Christmas compared to the five days before Christmas.
Home-moving activity was busiest in the South East, while the most popular type of properties to be listed for sale were typical first-time buyer homes with zero to two bedrooms.
Rightmove chief data officer Steve Pimblett says: “It’s early days but Boxing Day’s data suggests agents could have a busy start to 2026 after a quieter festive period during December, which was also impacted by the lateness of the Budget and the uncertainty around potential policies in the lead up to it.”
“Record breaking visit numbers indicates many are looking to put some of the uncertainty of last year behind them and get going with a 2026 move.”
Also commenting, Propertymark chief executive Nathan Emerson adds: “The festive break often acts as a reset point for buyers and sellers who are ready to act once the new year begins. The sharp rise in enquiries and new listings highlights a strong appetite to move into 2026, particularly among first-time buyers targeting smaller homes.”
“Encouragingly, easing inflation and lower base rates compared to this time last year should help improve affordability and confidence, giving the market a stronger platform as the year gets underway.”
“While this momentum is positive, it also underlines the importance of ongoing market confidence and stability. Affordability pressures, supply constraints, and policy certainty will remain critical factors in determining whether this early surge in interest can be sustained through the spring.”
In December, Rightmove predicted that the average house price in Great Britain will rise by 2% this year.
