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We are now over two weeks into January and at Sarah Mains Residential, the post-Christmas pause feels like a distant memory.
As we hit the two-week mark of January, I wanted to share a fresh perspective on what’s actually happening in our local property market. Every year, you’ll hear agents talk about the "Boxing Day Bounce," that massive spike in people browsing homes online.
But let’s be honest: Boxing Day traffic always looks dramatic because almost nobody is on their phone on Christmas Day! While those clicks are interesting, they don't always mean people are ready to move. To us, the real story isn't the holiday scroll, it’s the sustained momentum we see once people get back to reality.
Two weeks in, the verdict is clear: the post-Christmas "bounce back" we are seeing in 2026 is driven by genuine, motivated demand, not just holiday boredom.
The Shift from Browsing to Buying
What we’ve observed since returning to our branches in Whickham, Low Fell and Newcastle, is a distinct shift in the quality of engagement. Boxing Day might bring the volume, but January brings the value.
The enquiries hitting our desks right now are coming from buyers who have spent the break reflecting on their lifestyle and are now ready to commit. Whether it’s first-time buyers buoyed by stabilising mortgage rates or families looking for that "forever" home, the energy in the market is genuinely positive.
The North East Performance: Our Figures Today
While national headlines often generalise, our on the ground knowledge tells a much more localised story. We are seeing a healthy balance where realistic pricing is meeting strong buyer appetite.
As of today, Monday 19th January, our 2026 figures show:
● Over 40 New Properties Launched: Fresh stock is hitting the market to meet high demand.
● Over 350 Viewings Arranged: A clear indicator of the sheer volume of active buyers currently on the move.
● Over 120 Offers Received: Proof that the "New Year, New Home" resolution is being put into action with serious financial commitment.
What This Means for Sellers and Buyers
For sellers, this two-week mark is significant. It proves that there is a deep pool of motivated buyers who aren't just testing the water, they are ready to move quickly. For buyers, the increased number of new instructions means more choice, but also highlights the need for a proactive approach in a competitive local market.
We lead with a fresh approach to estate agencies, because we know that property is, at its heart, about people and their plans. The start of 2026 has provided the perfect conditions for those plans to become a reality.
Ready to Make Your Move?
If the first two weeks of the year have taught us anything, it’s that the market isn’t waiting around. If you are considering a move, now is the ideal time to capitalize on this surge of high-quality activity.
Would you like a fresh, expert perspective on your home’s value? Contact the Sarah Mains team today to discuss how we can help you navigate this busy New Year market.
