Why London Buyers Have More Leverage Than They Think

Inventory's up: May saw 1,999 new listings (a 15% year-over-year increase) and 3,253 active listings (+27%).

That gives us about 4.5 months of supply, firmly in buyer's market territory (SNLR ≈ 36%).

Prices are steady: Average home price in May was $656,432—a tiny 0.3% bump month-over-month, but still 0.6% below last year.

Some segments offer extra bang:

• Condos are down ~6% MoM, ~6% YoY
• Townhouses dipped ~0.4% MoM & ~3.3% YoY

What this means for you as a buyer:

More choice, less competition, and better negotiating power.

If you've been sidelined, now is a moment to act—before the market flips again.

🏠 Sellers: Timing & Strategy Are Everything

Sales totaled 722 in May, down ~15% from last year, while inventory surged.

The sales-to-list-price ratio sits around 98%—meaning nearly full asking price, but no bidding wars.

Detached homes are holding value (~$709K avg), while condos and townhouses remain soft.

What this means for sellers:

• You can still get strong offers — if you price your home right and stage it well.
• Overpricing? You risk being stuck in the increasing pile of active listings.
• Well-priced homes still move—and with strategy, you're not at a total disadvantage.

🧭 Why This Matters—For Buyers & Sellers Alike

London is shifting into balanced terrain: not hot, not freezing—just solid and strategic.

Affordability is improving for first-time buyers, thanks to more supply and flatter price growth.

Sellers face a moment of truth: this spring/summer cycle is likely the best window before the market balances further or shifts toward favouring buyers.

🎯 Quick Questions to Reflect On

If you're buying: Would you rather move now—with more room to negotiate—or wait and risk missing choice as inventory dips?

If you're selling: How can you ensure your listing stands out? Have you set expectations around price, timing, and presentation?

For both: Are you working with someone who understands this nuanced, in-between market? Or are they operating with pandemic-era assumptions?

✨ Bottom Line

London's market isn't roaring, but it's not stagnant.

Buyers: You have the upper hand—if you act smart.

Sellers: You still have opportunity—but timing and pricing are critical.

Let's figure out what this market means for you—and how to make it work for you, not against you.