Residential property transactions in the UK fell by 3% in April 2026, according to the latest HMRC figures.
Seasonally adjusted transactions amounted to 101,030, A decrease of 3% from March But an increase of 53% from April 2025.
Non-seasonally adjusted transactions were 85,880, down 16% month-on-month but up 51% year-on-year.
HMRC said the large annual increase was mainly due to weak activity in April 2025.
This followed changes made to stamp duty land tax thresholds on 1 April 2025. Many buyers completed purchases in March 2025 before the changes came into effect.
Non-residential real estate transactions also decreased in April. Seasonally adjusted transactions fell 6% from March to 9,960.
This was still 1% higher than the previous year. Total non-seasonally adjusted transactions were 9,860. That was just below April 2025 and 20% below March 2026 levels.
HMRC said the figures were based on completed sales. This usually happens two to four months after the offer is made. Figures may not reflect current market conditions.
“The slight decline in transaction numbers on a monthly basis indicates consistent resilience from the housing market in the face of economic and political uncertainty,” said OnTheMarket president Jason Tabb.
“Instead of stepping back and delaying decisions, buyers and sellers often adapt to change and continue to move forward with their transactions.”
Tomer Abudi, director of specialist lender MT Finance, said: “Market conditions are tough, with a lack of affordability a major concern for many, especially first-time buyers and those trying to buy in more expensive parts of the country such as London and the South East.
“One year ago, buyers were coming to terms with the cancellation of the stamp duty concession and increased costs, with transactions falling as purchases made to take advantage of the concession. This shows how important government action is in stimulating housing market activity.”
