The start of a new year is often when people begin to think more seriously about their property plans. Buyers restart their searches, sellers consider their next move, and landlords look ahead to the year ahead.
Here in Virginia Water, the Wentworth Estate and the surrounding areas, the market at the beginning of 2026 feels steady and considered, and considerably busier than the last few months. The first week of 2026 saw nearly £5m of house sales. Demand continues to centre on well located, well presented homes.
If you are considering buying or moving in the area, explore our Properties for sale in Wentworth Estate, Properties for sale in Virginia Water and the surrounding areas. If you have any questions, you can also visit our award-winning website or call us on 01344 843000 and email us.
What to expect for house prices in 2026
Gradually easing mortgage rates and improving affordability are supporting buyer confidence as we kick off 2026. Looking ahead, we expect the property market to show modest growth, with house prices likely to rise gently. This is creating a more stable market for buyers and sellers alike, where decisions can be made in a considered, rather than in a rushed way.
In practice, this means prices here in Virginia Water and the Wentworth Estate are likely to remain broadly stable, with some gradual increases for well presented, desirable homes. The market here is less about sudden spikes and more about predictable, steady activity, giving buyers and sellers time to make informed decisions.
For buyers, this can translate into opportunities to secure the right property without intense competition, while sellers benefit from a more measured, engaged pool of potential purchasers. Landlords may also find that rental demand remains steady, particularly for quality homes in sought-after areas.
At Barton Wyatt, we help our clients understand these trends locally so that decisions around buying, selling, renting or letting are grounded in the current market reality.
Buying in Virginia Water in 2026
For buyers, the early months of the year often bring new opportunities. Properties come to the market following the festive period, and competition can be more manageable than later in the spring.
Many buyers in Virginia Water are looking for family homes, space and a strong long-term lifestyle choice. Working with a local team allows buyers to understand values, identify suitable areas and move forward with confidence.
Buying now or waiting to see how 2026 plays out comes with different considerations. Buying early in the year can give you the advantage of a quieter market, with motivated sellers and opportunities to secure the right home. Waiting may allow for slightly lower mortgage rates and a more settled market, but gradual price increases are expected. For first-time buyers in particular, improving affordability makes 2026 a positive time to make a move. The right choice will depend on your own financial situation and the local market here in Virginia Water, the Wentworth Estate and the surrounding areas.
Selling your home in Virginia Water or Wentworth Estate
For sellers, starting the year with a clear strategy remains important. Realistic pricing and thoughtful presentation continue to play a key role in attracting serious interest.
Homes that are positioned correctly from the outset tend to generate more meaningful enquiries and smoother transactions. Detailed local knowledge of individual roads, property types and buyer expectations ensures each home is marketed in the right way.
Renting and letting locally
The rental market in Virginia Water and the surrounding areas remains very active. Strong demand continues from companies, families and professionals who value the area’s English and International schools, our environment, connections and fantastic sporting opportunities and events. Royal Ascot is only 5 months away!
For renters, the early part of the year can offer a good range of available homes. For landlords, maintaining standards and responding to changing expectations and legislation remains important in securing suitable tenants.
James Wyatt’s outlook for 2026
Buying now or waiting to see how 2026 plays out comes with different considerations. From a local perspective, Barton Wyatt Director James Wyatt expects the year ahead to be shaped by the following:
- A calmer, more balanced market, with buyers and sellers making decisions more thoughtfully
- UK base rate lowering from the current 3.75% to 3.25% or possibly 3% by the year end
- Gradually improving affordability as mortgage rates continue to ease with more mortgage options available than have been in the last 18 years.
- Continued demand for well-presented homes in the right locations across Virginia Water, the Wentworth Estate, Sunningdale and surrounding areas
- Realistic pricing remaining central to achieving strong levels of interest and successful outcomes
- After price falls in 2024/5, we expect to see prices rises roughly in line with the inflation rate in late 2026, so about 2.1-2.5%
This outlook reflects what we are seeing day to day in the local market and highlights the importance of understanding how wider trends apply at a local level when planning a move in 2026.
Planning your next move
While the UK property market in 2026 is expected to be more measured than in previous peak years, areas such as Virginia Water and Wentworth Estate continue to benefit from strong local demand.
Understanding how national trends translate locally is key for anyone considering a move this year.
Are you considering your next step?
With more than 60 years of local experience in Virginia Water, the Wentworth Estate and surrounding Surrey areas, Barton Wyatt provide clear, practical advice to help you make informed decisions. Whether you are thinking about buying, selling, renting or letting, our team can guide you through the market in 2026 with absolute confidence.
GET IN TOUCH
If you’re thinking of moving to the area, make sure to take a look at our latest Properties for sale in Wentworth Estate, Properties for sale in Virginia Water. If you’d like to speak to someone, a member of our expert team would be happy to help. You can call us on 01344 843000 or email us.
Ready to sell or let your Virginia Water or Wentworth property? Call us on 01344 843000 or email us for expert advice on selling your home in Virginia Water, Wentworth, or the surrounding Surrey areas. You can also request a free property valuation via our website here.
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