The UK housing market collapse, a phenomenon often mentioned but never quite materialising. It's the real estate equivalent of Bigfoot. We've all heard the stories, but we still don't have definitive proof.
So, is a UK housing market crash really on the horizon?
You'd think a global pandemic would send the UK housing market into a tailspin, wouldn't you? Wrong! Instead, it became the trigger for a housing market rally, defying all logic and reason. Who needs common sense when you've got a global crisis on your hands?
The pandemic led to UK home prices soaring to new heights. According to the ONS, prices rose by an average of 4.1% in the 12 months to March. Who needs a stable economy when you've got a housing market on steroids?
Now, it seems that the wild ride is coming to an end. Bidding wars have largely faded, inventories are loosening, and that feeling of frothiness is gone. But don't worry because this doesn't mean a crash is imminent. It's more like a gentle nudge back to reality.
Mortgage rates have been on a rollercoaster ride, with the Bank of England's base rate reaching a whopping 4.5%. But instead of causing a housing market crash, this has only slowed the market down. It's like trying to catch a runaway train with a feather – it might slow down, but it's not going to stop.
Millennials, that all-powerful generation, are entering their prime buying years, and they're hungry for homeownership. Plus, Hispanics are a young, growing demographic keen on homeownership as well. Combine these factors, and you've got a recipe for continued demand.
Oh, remember the good ol' days of 2004-2006 when anyone with a pulse could get a mortgage? Those days are long gone, and lending standards are now stricter than ever. Borrowers need to have excellent credit (a median score of 765) to get a mortgage these days. So, no more liar loans and wild lending practices to fuel a crash.
Foreclosure activity has been relatively muted, with no signs of a repeat of the 2008 housing market crash. With homeowners having more equity in their homes than ever before, it's unlikely that we'll see a surge in foreclosures that could trigger a crash.
Home builders have been cautious in their construction pace, and they're not building enough homes to meet demand. As a result, the UK is facing an ongoing shortage of homes for sale, which is keeping prices high and preventing a crash.
London. UK. A property sold sign outside a suburban terrace house with property prices raising dramatically in the countryside.
Economists predict that the UK economy might enter a recession in 2023. If this happens, the housing market will undoubtedly feel the impact. However, experts believe that any recession would be relatively mild and that the housing market would recover.
Contrary to concerns of a potential crash, the UK housing market is characterised by resilience and stability. The persistent demand for housing, limited supply, robust mortgage market regulations, economic resilience, and government support collectively contribute to its strength. Although occasional fluctuations and regional variations are inevitable, the fundamental factors supporting the housing market indicate a favourable environment for investors.
If you're looking to buy or invest in the UK housing market, it's essential to stay informed and make smart decisions. This is where we come in. The team of experts at Gladfish are on hand to help you navigate the current climate and find the best opportunities.
At Gladfish we stay up to date with the latest news on the UK housing market and economic trends. Knowledge is power, and staying informed helps us to help you make the best decisions for your financial future. We can offer invaluable advice and support for investors looking to buy or sell property in the current market. Don't be afraid to seek professional help to make the most of your investments.
So, while the UK housing market might be slowing down, it's not time to panic or predict a crash just yet. With various factors at play, it's crucial to stay informed and make smart decisions. And who knows? Maybe the UK housing market crash will remain the Bigfoot of the real estate world for a little while longer.
Regards,
Beau Worboys
