Today's Buyers Move Faster
Understanding Shifting Purchase Timelines
Recent research from Mortgage Advice Bureau reveals a fundamental shift in buyer behaviour that has significant implications for homeowners bringing properties to
market. Today's prospective purchasers are demonstrating markedly increased confidence, translating into considerably shorter anticipated timelines from initial search
to completion.
The Acceleration of Buyer Intent
The data, drawn from the My MAB and Homebuying apps, illustrates a dramatic compression in expected purchase timeframes. The median period buyers anticipate
between browsing and buying has fallen sharply from 11.14 months in 2021 to just 5.83 months in 2024 and 2025 to date. This represents a halving of the typical journey length
in under five years.
For homeowners marketing properties, this shift translates into a pool of purchasers who are ready to move decisively rather than remaining in prolonged consideration
phases.
When Did Buyer Confidence Surge?
The most substantial acceleration occurred between 2022 and 2023, when median expected purchase times contracted from eight months to marginally under six months,
where they've subsequently stabilised. This timing coincides with the market's transition from seller-dominated conditions to a more balanced buyer's market, coupled with the reality of elevated interest rates.
Rather than adopting a wait-and-see approach hoping for a return to the record-low rates of 2021, buyers recalibrated their expectations and financial preparations,
concluding they could secure properties within more compressed, achievable timeframes.
First-Time Buyer Determination
The confidence surge is particularly pronounced among first-time buyers. In 2025, 88% expect to complete their purchase within 18 months – a substantial increase from the
75% figure recorded in 2021. This demographic is approaching homeownership with enhanced proactivity and realism, actively structuring their finances and search criteria
rather than postponing decisions pending improved market conditions.
Remarkably, 97% of aspiring buyers project they'll achieve homeownership within three years. Beyond this threshold, only 3% anticipate requiring more than three years,
forming what the research describes as a gentle long tail – a small cohort facing persistent affordability obstacles.
What This Means for Active Sellers
Rachel Geddes, Strategic Lender Relationship Director at Mortgage Advice Bureau, characterises the findings as indicating a new era of confidence for prospective buyers,
who are taking more of an empowered approach to getting on the property ladder.
For sellers, this buyer empowerment creates a more efficient market environment. Properties attracting genuine interest are more likely to progress to completion within
reasonable timeframes, reducing the prolonged uncertainty that characterised earlier market conditions.
Geddes notes that buyers' proactive belief, coupled with the expertise and insight of a mortgage broker, can place prospective buyers in an even stronger position to
streamline their homebuying journey.
Transaction Speed Initiatives
The research findings align with Project 28 – an industry-wide charter supported by Mortgage Advice Bureau alongside fellow professional bodies, designed to significantly
compress property transaction processes. The initiative aims to reduce delays and enhance overall homebuying experiences, potentially benefiting sellers through swifter
completions.
Practical Implications
This evolution in buyer behaviour suggests several considerations for homeowners
contemplating a sale:
Today's purchasers enter the market with clearer financial parameters and compressed timelines. Properties priced realistically and presented professionally are more likely to
attract buyers ready to progress quickly rather than tentative browsers in extended consideration phases.
The shift from prolonged market observation to decisive action means that when serious buyers identify suitable properties, they're prepared to move efficiently. For sellers, this
underscores the importance of ensuring properties are market-ready when listed, as opportunities to engage committed purchasers may materialise more rapidly than in
previous market cycles.
Understanding that contemporary buyers have adapted to current interest rate environments rather than awaiting dramatic rate reductions also provides useful context.
This acceptance of prevailing financial conditions has created a buyer pool operating within realistic expectations, potentially contributing to smoother negotiations and
progression.
Why Choose Coakley & Theaker?
At Coakley & Theaker, we’re more than just estate agents, we’re your local property partners. With a wealth of experience and a passion for helping people find their ideal
homes, we’re committed to delivering exceptional service every step of the way. If you’re considering a move to Bury St Edmunds in 2025 or want expert advice on the
local property market, contact us today. Call 01284 769691 or get in touch via our social media profiles to discuss your options.
