New research by analytics firm TwentyCi reveals a marked shift in the profile of UK home movers in Q1 2025, with older and more affluent buyers increasingly dominating the property market.
The number of households engaged in the home mover journey has reached 1.47 million, an increase of 80,000 since January. This growth, combined with a +9.3% year-on-year rise in property sales and a +23% increase in exchanges, reflects strong market momentum. The Stamp Duty threshold change on 1 April played a key role in accelerating first-time buyer activity ahead of the deadline.
Demographically, pensioners now account for nearly 25% of home movers, up from 17% in Q1 2024. Individuals aged over 45 (excluding pensioners) represent 42% of movers, while those under 45 have become less likely to relocate. Affluent households are also rising in prominence: 52% of movers now earn £50,000 or more, compared to 46% a year ago, and 31% earn over £70,000, up from 26%.
The type of property favoured by movers is changing too. Detached and semi-detached homes are increasingly popular, while demand for flats and terraced housing is falling. Larger homes, particularly those with four or five bedrooms, have seen notable growth, with mid-to higher-priced properties (£350k–£1m) now +10% more likely to drive moves.
Regionally, the East Midlands and East of England saw the greatest uptick in activity, while Scotland, Northern Ireland, Wales, and London experienced declines. Accessible rural areas are becoming more attractive than urban centres or remote countryside.
TwentyCi CEO Colin Bradshaw highlighted the commercial opportunity in targeting this high-intent consumer group, stating that 'delaying key purchases like furniture and home essentials is rarely an option' for home movers.
Source: www.furniturenews.net