Demand soars ahead of supply according to Propertymark data

New Propertymark figures show a continuing large gap between demand and supply in the private rental sector. 

But the sales data shows the market remaining relatively strong, even in the build-up to Christmas.

Lettings market

The data – just released, but relating to November – shows that the average number of new prospective tenants registered per branch rose to 68. 

There was also an increase in supply with an average 10.8 new properties made available in each agency office.

However, that still means six applicants chasing every rental home available.

The trade body adds that in November, average UK rents were 4.4% higher than in November 2024. 

The average rent was £1,422 per month in England, £1,012 in Scotland, and £880 in Wales.

Some 2.2% of Propertymark agents reported problems with tenants in arrears. 

The body’s chief executive, Nathan Emerson, says: “The gradual rise in available stock is a welcome sign.

“But with demand continuing to outstrip supply in many areas, affordability pressures for tenants remain acute. 

“These figures reinforce the need for long-term policy certainty to support both buyers and renters, alongside a stable operating environment for agents on the front line.”

Sales market

On the sales side, some 103,000 completed transactions took place in November, despite Budget worries.

There was an average of 57 new buyers registered with each Propertymark agent, while the number of homes listed for sale was 10 for each branch. 

Each home for sale enjoyed an average 2.1 viewings during November.

Meanwhile the number of market appraisals rose to a typical 22 per agency branch. 

Source: Letting Agent Today, January 2026