The average number of viewings for every property on the market jumped from 1.3 to 2.2 in January compared to December as activity picked up.
In its latest housing insights report, Propertymark found that the average number of market appraisals per member branch jumped from 14 in December to 21 in January, in a strong indication that future listings will rise.
The average number of new buyer registrations per branch held steady in January at 74, unchanged from the previous month.
New property listings climbed higher month on month, at an average of 9.6 per branch compared to 6.4.
In the lettings market, the average number of new tenancies agreed per branch rose from 7.5 in December to 8.6 in January, Propertymark found.
The number of properties available to rent grew slightly from an average of 11.3 per branch to 12.9.
Move iQ founder Phil Spencer says: “For many buyers and renters, the start of 2026 still feels like a balancing act between opportunity and affordability.
“With interest rates now fluctuating and borrowing costs still elevated compared to previous years, people continue to approach moves cautiously.
“What we are seeing in this data is that people haven’t stopped moving, but they are being more measured in their decisions.
“The rise in viewings suggests buyers have started to actively explore their options again, while stable buyer registrations show that demand is returning, even if people are taking longer to commit.”
Propertymark chief executive Nathan Emerson says: “January’s figures highlight a housing market that is gradually regaining momentum following the festive period.
“Viewing numbers rising alongside the increase in market appraisals, suggests that many sellers are beginning the year with renewed confidence and are preparing to bring homes to market.
“At the same time, the modest uplift in sales agreed indicates that buyers remain active, although affordability pressures and the wider economic environment mean many continue to negotiate below the asking price.”
Emerson adds: “Within the lettings market, demand continues to outstrip supply, with an average of seven applicants competing for each available property.
“Although stock levels have edged slightly upward, supply remains constrained, and this imbalance is likely to remain a key challenge for renters and agents alike throughout the year.”
