A Robust Market with Continued Strong Results
The first half of 2026 has reinforced that we operate in a confident local market. At Neilsons, sales volumes are 1.7% higher than last year, while our total sales value has already reached £190m. At the same time, the average selling price in the region has increased by 1.4%.
Properties are still selling quickly too, with most properties typically going Under Offer within three to four weeks. At Neilsons, our average selling time is just 23 days on average so far in 2026.
Momentum Building with New Listings
One of the most notable trends so far this summer at Neilsons is the increase in new listings.
We have seen a massive 12% rise in new properties coming to market in June, alongside a +18.6% increase in “Offers Over” listings compared to last June, which is a clear sign of growing seller confidence. This seller confidence is market-wide, as there has also been a +16.2% across the ESPC membership.
This increase in supply, combined with steady buyer demand, is creating a balanced market, with competitive closing dates remaining a feature of the market for well presented, accurately priced and professionally marketed properties.
Improving Supply, But Still Balanced
Buyer demand remains healthy, and competition is still a key feature of the market. The increase in “Offers Over” listings reflects this, with sellers continuing to take advantage of competitive conditions.
Local Resilience Continues
As we’ve said consistently, Edinburgh and the Lothians continues to outperform other cities and wider UK trends. Strong economic fundamentals and the continued desirability of the city and surrounding areas are all contributors to the robust demand. This is a market built on solid foundations, and that is continuing to show.
Wider Economic Backdrop
The wider economic backdrop is constantly evolving. Ongoing geopolitical tensions and global uncertainty, particularly around energy markets, may contribute to inflationary pressure and could mean interest rates remain at 3.75% for longer than previously expected (the next review date is on 30th July). That said, the current outlook remains steady with the Bank of England Governor signalling that future interest rate hikes are far from certain, which should support buyer confidence as we move through the year.
You will no doubt see plenty of attention-grabbing headlines and click-bait commentary on the property market, which doesn’t reflect the reality of what we are seeing locally.
At Neilsons, we sell over one in ten properties locally and so we focus on real data, real activity, and real outcomes – not speculation.
Neilsons is currently:
- Ranked #1 across ESPC for sales volume, listings, and total sales value
- Ranked #1 on Rightmove for sales and listings
- Leading the market for “Under Offer” properties
That level of activity gives us a clear, real time view of exactly what is happening on the ground, and allows us to advise clients accordingly.
Experience, Adaptability, and Results
When selling what is usually your biggest asset, it is important to instruct an experienced agent who is experienced in all market conditions and nuances.
At Neilsons, we’ve navigated almost every conceivable market scenario over nearly 50 years in business, and our clients benefit from that depth of experience every day. A property that is accurately valued, professionally marketed, and supported by our award-winning team is always best placed to maximise market potential – whatever the external conditions may be.
And for buyers, securing the home you want in a competitive marketplace takes expertise and strategy. That’s where Neilsons’ combination of local knowledge, legal insight, and unique innovative digital tools gives clients the critical edge in today’s fast moving market.
The Outlook for the Rest of the Year
Our message is simple: 2026 has shown how robust the local property market is. With rising listings, steady sales, and continued buyer demand, the outlook for the Edinburgh and Lothians property market remains very positive for the rest of summer and as we approach autumn. And with Neilsons leading the market in both activity and key metrics, our clients remain in the strongest possible position.
Book a free consultation with Neilsons here!
