Why Are London Homes Taking Longer to Sell in 2025?

If you’ve noticed “Days on Market” creeping up in London listings, you’re not imagining it. Homes that once sold in a weekend are now taking three to six weeks — and there are a few key reasons behind this shift.

Let’s break down what’s happening in 2025 and what it means if you’re buying or selling.

1. More Inventory = More Options for Buyers

LSTAR reports a 20%+ increase in active listings compared to last year.When buyers have more choice, urgency naturally drops — meaning homes sit longer.During the 2021–2022 frenzy, buyers rushed because they felt they had no choice.In 2025? The pressure is gone.

2. Higher Interest Rates Are Slowing Buyer Confidence

Mortgage rates around 5.4–5.8% are keeping some buyers on the sidelines.This doesn’t mean buyers have disappeared — but it does mean they’re:✔ Slower to book showings✔ More selective✔ More cautious about monthly payments

Slower buyer activity = longer listing times.

3. Pandemic-Era Pricing Expectations Are Still Lingering

Some sellers are pricing based on 2021 emotions instead of 2025 data.Even a 5% overprice can cause a listing to stall.Buyers today are far more educated — and they’ll skip overpriced homes instantly.

4. Condition Matters More Than Ever

Buyers aren’t waiving conditions anymore.Homes that need major updates?They sit.Homes that show well, are staged, and professionally marketed?They sell much faster.

5. The Market Is Returning to Normal

A normal, balanced market means:

• More negotiation

• Longer listing periods

• Fewer bidding warsLondon is simply settling into what a healthy market actually looks like.

Bottom Line

Homes are taking longer to sell in 2025 — but the market is still steady, predictable, and active.Success today requires strategy: pricing, presentation, and a strong marketing plan.

If you’re thinking about selling — or wondering how long your home would take to sell — let’s talk strategy.

Justin Skrypnyk

Real Estate Broker

519-639-5176