Viewing numbers per property halve in two years

The average number of viewings per property for sale has halved in two years, it has been revealed.

The latest data in Propertymark’s housing report for August this year suggested that the average number of viewings per property is 1.7, down from almost four in August 2024.

Propertymark attributed the drop in viewings to “continued affordability pressures” and a “cautious approach” among some buyers.

It added that the drop may partly reflect the seasonal slowdown typically associated with the summer period.
The data also revealed that 86% of agents reported properties achieving less than the asking price.

The key issue for the industry is not a lack of activity, but the gap between what buyers are prepared to pay and what sellers are willing to accept.”

Nathan Emerson, Chief Executive of Propertymark, said: “August’s figures show a housing market that is functioning, but where momentum remains uneven.

“The key issue for the industry is not a lack of activity, but the gap between what buyers are prepared to pay and what sellers are willing to accept.”

He explains: “With more properties requiring negotiation, realistic pricing and strong local market knowledge are becoming increasingly important for agents managing expectations on both sides.

“For agents, this is a market where quality of advice matters more than ever. Understanding local conditions, setting realistic expectations and helping clients navigate a more complex transaction process will be central to supporting a stable housing market through the months ahead.”

Phil Spencer, Founder of Move iQ, said: “For sellers, the days of simply putting a property on the market and waiting for competition to do the work are not necessarily here.

“Presentation, pricing and choosing the right moment can make a real difference, particularly when buyers are scrutinising value more closely.

“A seller who prices realistically from the outset is likely to be in a much stronger position than one who has to make repeated reductions later.”