If you’ve been watching the Lancaster property market recently, one number stands out above all others: there are 133% more homes for sale in Lancaster than there were just three years ago. Back in May 2022, there were 443 homes available. This May, that figure hit 1,034. (LA1 and LA1 2)
That’s a lot more choice for buyers. But for sellers, it’s a crucial signal — you’re no longer the only game in town. Competition has increased, and in today’s market, standing out really matters.
More homes, but also more movement
It’s easy to assume a rise in homes for sale means things have slowed down — but that’s not the full picture. Nationally, regionally, and here in Lancaster, sales activity is up.
Across the UK, 580,191 homes were sold subject to contract (STC) by June 8, 2025 — up from 535,183 in 2024 and 486,035 in 2023. That’s a 6% year-on-year increase and a steady return to confidence in the market.
Here in Lancaster, we’ve seen a similar pattern. In May 2023, 114 homes sold STC. That rose to 137 in May 2024, and this year we saw 135 sales agreed. While the pace has steadied slightly, activity remains strong — people are moving.
Price trends: modest but steady
House prices in Lancaster have remained remarkably stable. The average selling price in May 2025 was £264,299, compared to £245,622 in 2024 and £266,122 in 2023.
The price per square foot tells a similar story: £252 in May 2025, up from £239 last year. It’s a modest rise, but one that reflects growing buyer confidence and the value people place on well-presented homes in our city.
Why presentation matters more than ever
With over 1,000 homes on the market in Lancaster, your home needs to do more than just exist — it needs to shine.
Today’s buyers are browsing on their phones and scrolling through listings quickly. First impressions matter. That means professional photography, video or virtual tours, and strong online marketing are no longer optional — they’re essential.
At JDG, we see this every day. The homes that sell quickly and at strong prices are the ones that are well-prepared, well-marketed, and priced sensibly from day one.
One in two homes still don’t sell
Here’s a stat every seller should know: 56.28% of UK homes listed so far in 2025 have sold. That means 43.72% haven’t. They’ve either been withdrawn or sat unsold.
So while demand is there, buyers are also being choosy. If your home isn’t priced correctly, if it doesn’t present well, or if it’s marketed poorly — it’s likely to be overlooked.
That’s why working with the right estate agent makes all the difference. It’s about more than just putting your home on Rightmove. It’s about strategy, detail, and experience.
Most sellers are buyers too
Here’s something worth remembering: over 8 in 10 Lancaster sellers are also buyers. That means a small compromise on your sale price might be worth it if you’re securing a good deal on your onward move.
Flexibility is key. Buyers who are open-minded — maybe willing to look in a slightly different area or consider a home that needs some updating — are finding fantastic opportunities. Sellers who understand the subtle differences across Lancaster’s neighbourhoods are setting better asking prices and getting results.
Lancaster’s market is nuanced
Lancaster’s property market doesn’t follow a one-size-fits-all rulebook. In some streets, homes are flying. In others, buyers are negotiating harder on price, dates, and even what’s included in the sale.
The good news is that mortgage rates have started to stabilise. There’s more confidence, and we’re seeing more people actively planning their moves.
But success in the second half of 2025 will belong to those who are prepared.
So, what does this mean for you?
If you’re thinking of selling in Lancaster:
- Be realistic about pricing
- Make sure your home stands out online
- Choose an agent who knows the local market inside out
- Understand your buyer’s mindset — and that they have options
At JDG, we’re here to help you navigate this changing market. Whether you’re upsizing, downsizing, or just starting to explore your options, we’ll give you honest advice, backed by real data and years of experience.
Thinking of moving? Let’s talk. Call us on 01524 843322 or send us a message — remember at JDG we are always here to help.
Thanks for reading
Michelle
