A record number of homes were listed for sale on Boxing Day, fuelled by falling mortgage rates and buyers eager to beat upcoming stamp duty changes, according to Rightmove data.
The number of listings rose by 25% compared to the previous year, which itself was a record. Rightmove also reported its highest-ever Boxing Day visitor numbers, with enquiries to estate agents up 20 per cent.
The rush comes as new stamp duty thresholds, set to take effect on April 1, will reduce the "nil-rate" band for first-time buyers from £425,000 to £300,000, with similar cuts for other buyers.
Falling mortgage rates and renewed market confidence have further boosted activity.
Experts warned the surge may strain the already backlogged Land Registry, with planned strikes potentially delaying transactions.