The number of prospective homebuyers registering with estate agents fell slightly in May 2026, while the supply of homes for sale continued to improve, according to Propertymark's latest Housing Insight Report.

The average number of new prospective buyers registered per member branch fell to 64 during May, while the average stock of properties available for sale increased marginally to 44 per branch, suggesting buyers are benefiting from greater choice. New sales instructions also eased slightly, averaging 10.1 properties per branch during the month.

Market activity remained relatively steady. The average number of sales agreed per branch was unchanged at 8.0, while just 11% of agents reported properties selling at the asking price. By contrast, 84% said homes were typically achieving below the asking price, indicating buyers continue to have room to negotiate. Propertymark also found that 40.4% of member agents reported most agreed sales were taking more than 17 weeks to progress from offer acceptance to exchange.

Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark, said: "May's figures demonstrate a housing market that continues to show resilience despite ongoing economic and geopolitical uncertainty. While we have seen a slight dip in prospective buyer registrations, stock levels have edged upwards, giving consumers more choice and helping to create a more balanced sales market.

"The Bank of England maintaining the base rate has provided a degree of stability, but affordability remains a significant challenge for many households, with buyers continuing to take a cautious approach."