LiveMore comments on HMRC Property Transactions

30 May 2025

Simon Webb, managing director of capital markets and finance at LiveMore, comments:

“A fall in transactions this month comes as little surprise following the surge we saw in March as buyers looked to complete before the stamp duty changes. But while activity may have dipped this month, it’s important not to lose sight of the longer-term shift we’re seeing in the property market – particularly among older homeowners.

“We’re continuing to see strong interest from people in their 50s, 60s and beyond who are looking to move, refinance or access equity to support their families. This segment of the market is often less reactive to short-term economic fluctuations and more focused on lifestyle changes, such as downsizing, relocating or adapting to retirement.

“The outlook remains encouraging. With interest rates expected to fall further this year, confidence is gradually returning and we believe the later life lending market will continue to grow in importance – not just as a source of housing activity, but as a key enabler of financial wellbeing in later life. The challenge now is to ensure that lending criteria, product innovation and advice services continue to keep pace with changing customer needs.”