Reaction to the 2025 Autumn Budget Statement

Paul Smith, chairman and founder of the UK's largest independently owned estate agency group Spicerhaart, which includes Darlows, said: “While some of the measures will place added pressure on higher-value homeowners, we don’t believe this Budget will knock overall confidence in the housing market.”

“What we’re likely to see instead is a more segmented market: activity staying strong in the mid-market, while owners of larger, more expensive homes may think twice before moving.”

“For those in higher-value homes facing rising ongoing costs, homeowners can choose to 'right-size', moving somewhere that meets the needs they have now and reducing their outgoings.”

“Right-sizing is about choosing a home that’s more sustainable, more affordable and more aligned with your life today. For many, it will be the most sensible and empowering financial decision they can make in the wake of this Budget.”

“With landlords also being taxed more, this could see more people deciding to sell their homes, reducing supply in the rental market.”

“We have been preparing for this moment. We have teams in lettings and sales to guide homeowners through the implications and help them move from anxiety to action with clear, practical advice.”