As we close the chapter on 2025 and look ahead to 2026, it’s a natural time to reflect on the year gone by and the trends shaping the year ahead. For the South Hams property market, it’s been a year of careful stability, steady demand, and subtle shifts that hint at exciting opportunities for both buyers and sellers.
One of the highlights for our team has been our auction success. There’s truly something exciting about the atmosphere of an auction room; the silent tension before the first big, the increasing pace of competition and the thrilling ‘bang’ of the hammer coming down. There are very few feelings like it! Being one of the only local agents who offer live, in-person auctions, the demand we’ve seen at our events has been remarkable, demonstrating that buyers remain confident and decisive when presented with the right opportunities. Whether it’s a period home with oodles of character, or a prime investment opportunity, our auctions have proven an effective way to bring buyers and sellers together quickly and successfully.
Equally encouraging has been the performance of our New Homes department. With a strong pipeline of properties and an increasing appetite from buyers looking for modern, energy-efficient homes in beautiful settings, we’ve enjoyed a year of growth and successful completions. This reflects a broader trend in the market: people are seeking homes that combine contemporary convenience and charm that only the South Hams can offer.
Our Prime Waterfront & Country House department has continued to show resilience. Despite the broader national market experiencing pockets of caution, properties that offer lifestyle appeal, whether stunning estuary views or countryside retreats, remained highly sought-after. Buyers are increasingly focused on quality of life and location, rather than just size, and this has kept the upper-end buoyant.
On the mainstream market, we observed consistent activity across our offices in Dartmouth, Kingsbridge, Modbury, Newton Ferrers, Salcombe, and Totnes. While affordability remains a consideration for many, the appeal of South Devon’s charm and community has kept transactions flowing. Properties with good energy efficiency, period character, or the potential for modernisation have been particularly popular; proof that buyers here value both tradition and forward-thinking practicality.
2025 kept our Residential Lettings team busy, and 2026 will be no different. With Renters Reform legislation taking effect on 1st May and councils now able to inspect rental properties, the sector faces one of its biggest changes in decades. Many long-standing landlords are selling, reducing rental stock, while tenants are staying longer or seeking new homes, creating supply and demand pressure. Now more than ever, landlords need experienced agents to manage compliance, rent reviews, and arrears. Professional management reduces risk and provides peace of mind.
Looking forward to 2026, the outlook is positive. Interest rates are expected to remain stable, giving buyers the confidence to act, while sellers in desirable, well-presented homes in key locations can continue to expect strong interest. For the team, the goal remains the same: to provide expert guidance, local insight, and a seamless experience for every client, whether they’re buying, selling, letting, or renting. We look forward to helping more clients achieve their property ambitions in one of the most beautiful corners of the country.
If you’re considering a move in 2026, now is the perfect time to get in touch. Contact your local office, or request a valuation today, and let us help you make the most of the South Hams property market.