The UK housing market is experiencing an unexpected surge in activity this February, with property listings reaching their highest level for the month in a decade, according to a new report from Zoopla. The property website found that confidence is returning to the sector, with a significant increase in homeowners listing their properties for sale as spring arrives early for the UK housing market.
Zoopla’s data indicates that February 2026 is on track to record the highest number of newly listed homes for any February in ten years. The findings come shortly after the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors reported tentative signs that the market may be turning a corner following a challenging period that included uncertainty around the November 2025 budget.
Rising House Prices Signal Market Recovery
Recent data from major mortgage lenders supports the positive momentum in the UK housing market. Halifax reported that average house prices increased by 0.7% in January, while Nationwide recorded a 0.3% rise during the same period. These figures suggest a strengthening market after months of subdued activity.
Additionally, first-time buyers are benefiting from improved market conditions. Figures released by Moneyfacts this month revealed that prospective homeowners now have access to the largest selection of low-deposit mortgages in at least 18 years, making homeownership more accessible to new buyers.
Lower Mortgage Rates Drive Activity
According to Zoopla, the housing market began 2026 with a strong rebound in activity, primarily driven by the lowest mortgage rates seen in four years. The combination of reduced borrowing costs and improved mortgage accessibility, particularly for first-time buyers, has created favorable conditions for market growth.
The surge in property listings reflects growing confidence among sellers and a strong desire among households to relocate. There are already 6% more homes available for sale compared to the same period last year, with this figure expected to continue rising in the coming months, according to a Zoopla spokesperson.
Buying Becomes More Affordable Than Renting
A significant shift in affordability has emerged across the property market. Zoopla reported that 40% of UK homes are now cheaper to purchase than to rent, thanks to lower mortgage rates and lenders relaxing their affordability criteria. In certain regions, this figure rises to more than half of all available properties.
However, economists predict that the increased supply of homes will help moderate price growth throughout 2026. While buyers will benefit from greater choice, the additional inventory is expected to keep house price increases in check, preventing the rapid appreciation seen in previous years.
Affordability Challenges Remain for Young Buyers
Despite positive market indicators, significant barriers to homeownership persist for younger generations. Alastair Douglas, chief executive of TotallyMoney, emphasized that while increased listings and falling mortgage rates are encouraging, the fundamental challenge for millions of young people remains accessing mortgages initially.
The difficulty of saving for a deposit continues to be a substantial obstacle, particularly given high rental costs and other living expenses. Douglas noted that student loan burdens, characterized by high interest rates and frozen repayment thresholds, further compound the problem. Meanwhile, home ownership increasingly appears to be reserved for those who can rely on financial support from family members, he added.
The market is expected to continue its current trajectory through the spring months, though authorities have not confirmed whether the momentum will be sustained throughout the year. The balance between increased supply and buyer demand will likely determine the extent of house price growth in 2026.
