Property market prospects

Looking ahead to the coming year, we peer into the crystal ball with the help of five of the county’s leading estate agents. 

Words by Jamie Crocker

Cornwall’s property market story heading into 2026 is one of cautious optimism. After a period of correction from the peaks of 2022, asking and sold prices have begun to align more realistically and have become largely stabilised, with market data showing average sold values in the low-to-mid £300,000s, depending on the source.

Nationally, forecasters are pencilling in a modest uplift next year as mortgage rates ease and affordability improves, a backdrop that could unlock a return of buyer confidence across the South West. 

Locally, demand patterns remain distinct: scarcity of good stock, the enduring appeal for coastal lifestyle buyers and the continued buoyancy at the top of the market, where million-pound listings and sales have become noticeably more common, all look set to shape transactions in 2026. 

Recent county market briefs and agency reporting point to stronger sales-agreed activity, but with price sensitivity and careful negotiation still the order of the day. 

In our cover story, five leading Cornish agents offer a standout property that’s on their books or has just been sold and explain what, in their view, will dictate the market next year, from shifting buyer profiles and planning constraints to the influence of mortgage availability and lifestyle demand. 

JACKIE STANLEY

“With the unpredictable, stop-start nature of 2025 now behind us, attention is turning more optimistically to 2026 and the prospect of a fluid, confident housing market. Although uncertainty around the autumn Budget caused some buyers and sellers to pause, the market proved resilient for much of the year.
The Bank of England’s latest interest rate reduction is expected to stimulate renewed activity, releasing pent-up demand carried over from 2025. Together, these factors point to steady growth and fresh opportunity, particularly in the South West, where momentum is expected to gather pace as the year progresses.

Realistic pricing will remain essential, and sellers are advised to prepare early by assembling legal documentation, including title deeds, guarantees and planning permissions, to help ensure a smoother conveyancing process.”

Garden House  |  St Mawgan

“Set within a wooded valley on the edge of a sought-after village, Garden House is a rare example of mid-century modernist architecture. Extending to around 5,000 sq ft within 1.25 acres of mature gardens, the 1974-built home retains its original luxury, with sweeping valley views, exquisite landscaping and both indoor and outdoor swimming pools.”
www.jackie-stanley.co.uk

MAY WHETTER & GROSE

“We’re hoping that this year will show renewed optimism come the Spring, but we expect it will remain a buyer’s market for the foreseeable future. Vendors need to be realistic on pricing if they want to achieve a sale within a reasonable timescale. Last year saw more relocation and main home moves, whilst the second home market was very subdued, and this may continue into 2026.”

Lerryn  |  Lostwithiel

“Located on the St Winnow side of Lerryn, this extensively upgraded home offers stunning river and village views. Light, open-plan living areas feature engineered oak floors, bifolding doors, and a log burner. The bespoke kitchen includes underfloor heating, Carrera marble quartz surfaces, and high-end appliances. Four bedrooms, stylish bathrooms, utility space, and direct garden access complete this beautifully presented, contemporary home.”

www.maywhetter.co.uk

JACKSON STOPS

“As we move into 2026, there is a renewed sense of confidence across the property market. With the Budget now out of the way and no immediate policy changes implemented, a period of uncertainty that caused many buyers to pause has lifted. In recent months, activity has been somewhat stagnated as purchasers waited for clarity following the Rachel Reeves Budget, but that clarity has now arrived. We are therefore expecting a strong and positive start to 2026, with pent-up demand beginning to translate into committed transactions. Anyone considering a move is encouraged to contact the Jackson-Stops Cornwall office for confidential marketing advice or an informal, in-person discussion.” 

Tanglewood  |  Penelewey  |  Feock

“Set within just under 1.2 acres of mature gardens, Tanglewood is an elegant detached five-bedroom home with a heated swimming pool, designed by Alfred J. Cornelius. Offering over 5,200 sq ft, it blends subtle Art Deco character with contemporary luxury, featuring a vaulted garden room, exceptional kitchen and a superb principal suite, all within private, gated grounds.” 

www.jackson-stops.co.uk

JOHN BRAY ESTATES

“We approach 2026 with a measured confidence shaped by experience. Over the past year, it has become clear that Cornwall continues to operate to its own logic, with buyers responding best to realism and decisiveness. Pricing has proved central to maintaining momentum, and we have seen time and again that well-judged adjustments quickly turn interest into agreed sales.

While we recognise the impact of higher taxes and wider economic pressures, demand has remained resilient, particularly for prime homes that are presented honestly. Our expansion across the Seven Bays reflects this steady appetite, as does a strong run of transactions towards the end of the year.

Looking ahead, our outlook for 2026 is grounded in pragmatism, clear advice and the understanding that real progress is achieved through engagement.”

Whins  |  New Polzeath

“One property that captures this approach is Whins in New Polzeath, offered for sale for the first time in a hundred years. It represents a rare chance to acquire a house with genuine longevity in one of north Cornwall’s most sought-after villages. Our strategy is straightforward: provide clear guidance, resist overvaluation and allow the strength of the house to speak for itself. In a market where buyers are selective and informed, transparency is proving decisive.”
www.johnbrayestates.co.uk

ROHRS & ROWE

“For 2026, the national housing market is expected to mirror many 2025 trends.
First-time buyers will remain influential, meaning more sellers may find themselves in chains. In Cornwall, demand is particularly strong from full-time relocators drawn by the county’s lifestyle, scenery, pricing and
long-term appeal. With interest rates at 3.75% and likely to ease, conditions are favourable for buyers planning moves early in the year.

Higher-than-usual listings are anticipated as sellers who paused during 2025 relist ahead of spring. The delayed Budget created uncertainty, but renewed confidence is expected to drive increased activity in January through March, offering a dynamic start to the market.”

Tregwyth  |  Mullion

“Tregwyth – a strategic sale delivered. After a previous agency generated just one viewing, we implemented a fresh, targeted marketing approach focused on lifestyle and location. Bespoke and aerial photography transformed buyer engagement, driving high viewing levels, a best-and-final offer process, and a swift sale with exchange and completion achieved within weeks.”
www.rohrsandrowe.co.uk