Michael Anthony Estate Agents features in Rightmove’s October House Price Index

We’re proud to share that Michael Donnachie, Director at Michael Anthony Estate Agents, was quoted in Rightmove’s House Price Index, released on 19 October 2026. His comments on pricing were then picked up by national and property-industry press.

What the October figures show

According to Rightmove, the average price of a newly listed home rose by 1.0% this month (+£3,575) to £371,015. That leaves prices virtually flat compared with a year ago, down by 0.1%, which Rightmove says shows the market remains very price-sensitive.

Rightmove reports that the average two-year fixed mortgage rate has risen to 5.55%, from 5.29% last month, adding around £250 a month to the cost of a typical new mortgage since February.

Buyers also have plenty of choice. The number of new potential buyers contacting agents is 9% lower than a year ago, new listings are 3% higher, and the total number of homes for sale is at its highest level for this time of year since 2014. Sales agreed are 8% lower than a year ago, though broadly in line with the year to date, and deals are still being done for the right properties at the right price.

Michael’s view

With mortgage rates rising buyers are having to be more considered about what they can afford and what represents good value. That makes getting the asking price right from day one incredibly important.

“You never get a second chance to make a first impression. Price too high and you can quickly lose momentum, particularly in a market where buyers have plenty of choice. Once a property has been sitting on the market for a while, buyers naturally start to question why. You’ve lost that chance to capture your audience; the best price is usually the first price.

“Sellers need to be realistic and listen to the market. An experienced agent will know where buyers are, how to negotiate when issues come up through surveys, and how to keep a sale moving. One thing I’m reminding buyers and sellers of right now, is to focus on, can you afford it and does it fit your needs. The economics of a home buy are important, but for a family home you’re going to spend 20 years in, it’s worth looking longer term and not just at the inevitable ups and downs of the market.

Michael Donnachie, Director, Michael Anthony Estate Agents

What this means for sellers in Aylesbury, Leighton Buzzard and the surrounding villages

Rightmove’s regional figures give a useful picture closer to home. In the South East, which includes Aylesbury and the Buckinghamshire villages, average asking prices rose by 0.9% this month to £475,582, and are 0.9% lower than a year ago. In the East of England, which includes Leighton Buzzard and its neighbouring villages, prices rose by 0.1% to £415,159, and are 1.2% lower year on year.

With buyers watching their budgets closely and more homes to choose from, the first few weeks of marketing matter more than ever. Rightmove’s property expert Colleen Babcock says “competitive pricing from day one of marketing is critical to capitalise on initial buyer interest”, adding: “In such a price-sensitive market, the guidance and expertise of a local agent are paramount.”

For local sellers, that means:

• Setting a realistic asking price from the start, based on what buyers are paying now rather than what they paid a year or two ago.
• Making a strong first impression, so your home stands out when buyer interest is at its highest.
• Working with an agent who knows the local market, from where the buyers are to keeping a sale moving.

In the news: Michael’s comments featured in The Independent, The Intermediary and Property Industry Eye, as well as in Rightmove’s October 2026 House Price Index.

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