It’s the question we hear most often right now: “Is now a good time to move house?”
With interest rates, property prices and the cost of living all in the headlines, it’s understandable to feel cautious. But at HFA Mortgage & Protection, we believe it’s not just about what’s happening in the market, it’s about what’s right for you.
Here’s our expert take on the current landscape and why, for many people, 2025 could still be a great time to move.
The Market: What’s Happening Right Now?
As we head into mid-2025, the housing market has settled into a more balanced rhythm after the unpredictability of the past few years.
• Interest rates have stabilised, and while they’re higher than the ultra-low levels we saw in 2020–21, they’ve come down from recent peaks.
• House prices have cooled in many areas, making homes a little more accessible for buyers.
• There’s more choice of property on the market, with sellers becoming more realistic about pricing.
If you’re looking to upsize, downsize, relocate or simply get more space, now could be an excellent time to move house, especially if you’re financially ready.
The Right Time To Move House Is Personal
There’s never a perfect time for everyone but there might be a perfect time for you.
Ask yourself:
• Has your current home stopped meeting your needs?
• Do you need more space, better schools, or a different location?
• Have you built up equity and are ready to take the next step?
• Is your income secure, and do you have a clear budget?
If the answer is yes to some of these, then the market conditions matter less than your personal circumstances. And remember mortgages can be fixed, but your home is where your life happens.
What About Interest Rates?
We’ve all become a little fixated on interest rates and understandably so.
But while rates are higher than the historic lows of a few years ago, they are still within a ‘normal’ range when viewed in a long-term context. More importantly:
• You can often lock in a fixed rate for 2, 3 or 5 years, giving you stability
• If you move now, you could take advantage of negotiable asking prices
• And if rates drop in future, we can look to remortgage you onto a more suitable deal
The key is to make sure any mortgage is affordable today, not just hypothetically in the future. At HFA Mortgage & Protection, we always complete thorough affordability checks and tailor advice to your goals.
Buyer Confidence Is Growing Again
Many of our clients tell us they’ve been “waiting to see what happens” over the past year. But now, we’re seeing a definite uptick in confidence, especially among those who are clear about what they want.
We’re helping:
• First-time buyers who are tired of renting
• Families upsizing to homes with more space
• Couples relocating for lifestyle changes
• Downsizers making smart, timely moves
The common thread? They’re focused on what’s best for them, not just what the headlines say.
Don’t Try to Time the Market
Trying to time the housing market is like trying to predict the stock market, it’s nearly impossible.
Instead, focus on what you need:
• Can you afford the monthly payments?
• Is the move going to improve your lifestyle or financial future?
• Have you had expert guidance to help make the right decision?
If the answer is yes, then now could absolutely be the right time.
Let’s Talk About Your Next Move
At HFA Mortgage & Protection, we’re not here to “sell” you a mortgage. We’re here to help you make informed decisions that support your goals now and in the future.
If you’re thinking of moving, we’ll:
• Review your current mortgage and affordability
• Help you understand your options and what’s realistic
• Talk through how the market affects your plans (or doesn’t!)
Let’s Explore Your Options – because your next chapter might be closer than you think
If you’re thinking about buying your first home or moving up the property ladder the best thing you can do is start with a conversation. Getting expert mortgage advice early ensures you’re ready to act when the time comes.
At HFA Mortgage & Protection, we’re proud to offer personalised, jargon-free mortgage advice tailored to your unique goals and circumstances. Whether you’re months away from applying or ready to go now, we’re here to help you prepare, plan, and find the most suitable mortgage with confidence.
Start here: www.hfassociates.uk
Important Notice:
There may be a fee for mortgage advice. The precise amount of the fee will depend upon your circumstances but will range from £195 to £1500, and this will be discussed and agreed with you at the earliest opportunity.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
