Housing market enjoys best month for nearly a year

Miller Metcalfe posted on 1st April 2026

If you’re thinking about selling in the North West, the latest HMRC property data makes for encouraging reading.

The housing market enjoyed its strongest month in almost a year during February, with seasonally adjusted residential transactions rising by 6% month-on-month from 96,940 in January to 102,410 in February. This marks the most active month since the spike seen ahead of last year’s stamp duty deadline.

For homeowners considering selling a property, this rise in completed sales is a strong sign that buyers are returning to the market with confidence as we move further into spring.

With more motivated buyers actively searching, now could be the perfect opportunity to make the most of renewed market momentum.

Why the housing market looks stronger this spring

The latest HMRC figures also show that non-seasonally adjusted transactions increased by 7% in February compared with the previous month, reinforcing the view that market activity is strengthening.

This is great news for anyone selling a home, where demand remains strong across commuter towns, family-friendly suburbs and desirable village locations.

Areas across Bolton, Worsley, Culcheth, Prestwich and the wider North West continue to attract buyers looking for excellent transport links, strong schools and a better lifestyle balance.

When selling in the North West, pricing correctly remains one of the most important factors. Buyers are active, but they are also more considered in their decision-making, making accurate valuations and standout marketing essential.

What this means if you are selling in the North West

For homeowners planning on selling, stronger transaction data suggests improved confidence for both buyers and sellers.

As more sales complete, chains become easier to build, helping sellers move with greater certainty and more choice when securing their onward purchase.

This is particularly positive for:

Growing families looking for more space
Downsizers planning their next chapter
Homeowners relocating for work
Sellers wanting to maximise spring demand

The rise from 96,940 to 102,410 transactions in just one month shows there is real movement in the market, and sellers who act now could be perfectly placed to benefit from this momentum.

Book your free valuation with Miller Metcalfe

If you’re considering selling in the North West, there’s never been a better time to understand what your home could be worth.

At Miller Metcalfe, our experienced local teams combine trusted market knowledge with tailored marketing strategies to help you achieve the best possible result.

Book your free property valuation today and discover how much your home could achieve in the current North West market.

👉 Arrange your free valuation with Miller Metcalfe today

Miller Metcalfe

Miller Metcalfe are approachable, friendly and committed to making your move as quick, simple and stress free as possible – just what every estate agent should be!

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Housing market enjoys best month for nearly a year

Why the housing market looks stronger this spring

What this means if you are selling in the North West

Book your free valuation with Miller Metcalfe

Miller Metcalfe

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