Prices rose 0.8% in April, showing resilience despite high mortgage rates. Demand is slightly down, but sales remain steady and supply strong. Improved affordability and lending support buyers, especially first-timers, in a more balanced, competitive market.

Young people have been locked out of homeownership. Deposits are impossible to save. Mortgage rules are too strict. And ‘Generation Rent’ is now permanent. According to the narrative by the newspapers, younger generation homeownership has collapsed.

The latest figures from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) suggest something rather unexpected. After years of worsening affordability, the picture has begun to improve. Wages have risen faster than house prices since 2021, nudging the headline affordability ratios in the right direction. On the face of it, that feels like progress.

Rising mortgage rates have changed the property market, but in Wokingham, stability is creating smarter opportunities for buyers and sellers alike. With realistic pricing, motivated movers and strong local demand, this is a market to understand. not fear.