There's no getting around the fact that April has been an unusual month to try to read the property market. The ripple effects of the conflict in the Middle East — higher energy prices, inflation concerns, rising mortgage rates — have introduced a level of uncertainty that nobody was anticipating at the start of the year.

As we move through May 2026, buyers are seeing more homes come to market, but affordability still matters. Here is what today’s mix of greater choice, steady demand and higher mortgage costs means if you are planning a move.

New research from specialist lender Pepper Money suggests that around 220,000 privately rented homes will be sold out of the rental sector by the end of 2026. That's a significant number, and if you're a landlord weighing your options, you're far from alone in doing so. Understanding what's driving this trend, and what it means for those who stay.

April is a good time for buyers to focus on readiness rather than guesswork. In a market where choice has improved but confidence remains mixed, being organised can make all the difference when the right home comes along.