Since the pandemic began in 2020, the property sector has experienced immense change and adaption. As we set on our journey into 2022, many might be wondering what this New Year will bring for the sector and the market.
We spoke to a few Members of The Guild of Property Professionals about their predictions for 2022 and the property market moving forward.
A repeat of 2021?
Simon Bradbury, Managing Director of seven-branch Thomas Morris Sales & Lettings in Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire, says: “As with any predictions about the housing market in the UK, there is a huge amount of uncertainty when it comes to anticipating what may or may not happen in 2022 - particularly in view of what impact the Covid situation may have and the expectation that there will be no further boost in respect of Stamp Duty exemptions in the year ahead.
"There are undoubtedly some general economic headwinds that need to be factored into any predictions. These include an expected increase in interest rates, higher rates of inflation, continued Covid restrictions and general economic uncertainty as the consequences of Brexit become clearer - probably!
"I would suggest that the rental market in 2022 will probably be a repeat of 2021 – a gradual increase in rents with volumes remaining about the same. As for the sales market, I expect that volumes of housing transactions across the UK will reduce from the anticipated 2021 figure, of 1.5 million, to a more modest 1.2 million and that this 20% reduction will be broadly reflected in our own Eastern region. This reduction will be mainly due to the continued lack of instructions, which will, in turn, impact house prices which I expect to increase by a UK average of 7% and a regional average of approximately 6%.
"The two big themes of 2022 for the property market will be a continued lack of instructions and a general increase in interest rates."
"Levelling off" in 2022
Charlotte Demaine from Edkins & Holmes Estate Agents, comments: “Looking forward to 2022, I am confident that it will continue to be a sellers’ market for the first quarter. As the year progresses, I think property prices will begin to level off as more properties come to market and property price increases will begin to slow down, however, I feel overall the market will remain strong throughout 2022. The lack of properties available for rent means that the cost of renting continues to increase – great news for our landlords but not so good for people looking to rent.”
Rent now, buy later
Andrew Simmonds, Director at Bristol-based Parker's Estate Agents, said: “Although prices this year will grow at a slower rate than in 2021 due to rising rates, taxation and the energy crisis, the market certainly won't go off a cliff due to the lack of supply. I am expecting to see many vendors sell and move to rented with a view to onward purchasing later in 2022 or 2023.”
Advice for home seekers
According to John Newhouse, from Roseberry Newhouse in Stokesley, early signs in the market indicate high demand and low stock availability similar to 2021. “Looking for the ideal purchase or rental will have its challenges and I would advise buyers and tenants to work closely with their estate agent. Landlords will continue to enjoy a choice of tenants to suit their need. And sellers may continue to expect premium prices but should be wary of overzealous price guidance,” adds Newhouse.
Zoe Napier, Director of The Zoe Napier Group, says: “The message we have for buyers is once you have decided to move, get yourself in a position of strength from already having a buyer and complete chain behind you. Alternatively, if you are fortunate enough to be a cash buyer, to have proof of funding available and even demonstrate this to any selling agent at the earliest possible opportunity. For those requiring a mortgage, then ensure to obtain an advanced ‘approval in principal’ – a document which can be made readily available by most lenders of mortgage brokers. This will be requested by any agent at point of offer and those first off the block with their evidence can place their offer, strong intentions, readiness to co-operate and commitment are in an advantageous situation.”
Regional predictions
Wales: Demand continues to be strong
Director of Kelvin Francis Estate Agents in Cardiff, Kelvin Francis, says that the residential property market in Cardiff has remained buoyant throughout 2021 and the early signs are that this is continuing in 2022. “Large numbers of requests for valuations and instructions are being received after the festive period, indicating continuing optimism and confidence in the market. Values for the most attractive properties have proved strong, with large numbers of viewings leading to several offers, often having to go to sealed bids, achieving prices which on average are 5% to 10% over the asking prices,” he adds.
"The average house price in Cardiff for 2021 is £289,596 showing an average annual change of 16.5% increase. Demand is particularly strong in the popular two-bed starter homes and traditional three-bed, semi-detached dwellings, where continued pent-up demand has led to a record level of viewings for most listings. In the rental market, rents have increased on average by 20%, which has encouraged many established landlords to increase their portfolio, competing with would-be first-time buyers in the sales market, adding fuel to demand and house price increases."
Francis continues: "Many housing analysts are predicting a 5% increase in house prices for 2022. However, we feel that in 2021, house prices increased on average by 15% plus, which cannot be sustained, so our view is that house prices for 2022 will stabilise and at best increase marginally by 1% or 2%."
South London and Kent borders: Renters still seek the quiet life
Dr Jak Kypri, Director of Harpers & Co, based in Bexley Village, expects 2022 will continue to be buoyant for residential sales as demand will continue to outstrip supply. "The draw of South London and Kent's excellent schools will also draw buyers from outside of the area and strengthen values. The year ahead is not likely to be as fizzy and frenetic as the previous year, but demand and low interest rates will continue to provide good transaction levels in sales and lettings.
"Renters and landlords will continue to enjoy strong demand in the lettings sector but will also face some challenges from increased taxation and reduced incentives to let property, with the government seeing professional landlords as a useful funding stream to help plug the country's financial deficit. The south and Kent will continue seeing buyers and renters wanting a quieter life with less emphasis on the daily commute and grind with semi-rural and "quality” living uppermost in their minds."
Essex: A great start to 2022
Zoe Napier, Director of The Zoe Napier Group who specialises in selling unique homes in Essex, says: “The new year has started with spring in its step with an increased level of buyers leaving London and the city suburbs for that lifestyle move. Essex offers a surprising amount of beauty in the villages, coastal and rural areas and property prices in these areas continue to rise, not least due to the number of proceedable buyers bidding on any single property.”
Staffordshire: Continued growth
Angi Cooney, Director of C Residential, expects continued growth in the Rugeley market going forward into 2022. “In March 2021, the iconic Rugeley Power Station towers were demolished to make way for an exciting redevelopment of the total site, which will incorporate 2,500 homes of various designs plus a new school for all years, from the age of 3 to 18. The site is a significant brownfield site creating a logical extension of the East of Rugeley Strategic Development Area (SDA) within Lichfield District Council’s local plan strategy and Cannock Chase Council.
“There are plenty of opportunities in the area for industry, and there are exciting times ahead for this part of Staffordshire, which boasts two railways stations serving either the north or the south of the UK. We are nestled on the edge of Cannock Chase, which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
“The property prices are still relatively competitive, and I would welcome the chance of speaking with anyone interested in moving to this area."
Looking for more industry news? Take a look at the 2021 property sales and lettings market roundup in our Winter 2021 Regional Market Reports.
Contact us today
If you are searching for your new home or seeking guidance on the best strategy to sell your home in 2022, get in touch with your local Guild Member today.