The country house market is experiencing a vibrant season, with a variety of cottages and larger country homes now available as spring unveils its charm.

This year brings more than just pleasant weather; various factors are contributing to a potentially favorable market for buyers seeking bargains.

As of April 1, numerous English councils have raised council tax for second homes by 100%, while those purchasing high-end properties face stamp duty rates that have surged to 17% following a governmental tax hike last October.

This shift has created an advantageous situation for individuals contemplating purchases in holiday spots, as current owners of second homes and vacation rentals rush to sell to avoid escalating costs after the termination of the furnished lettings tax regime.

According to Jennie Hancock, the founder and director of Property Acquisitions based in West Sussex, instead of being attractive to second-home buyers, these properties are now being eagerly acquired by downsizers who finally have a substantial selection of options priced between £1 million and £2 million.

Younger generations inheriting family vacation homes are placing them on the market promptly due to rising upkeep costs, which are significantly higher than in previous years. Hancock notes, “As a result, we are witnessing exceptional properties in stunning village and coastal regions like the Witterings being listed, some of which have been in the family for 50 or 60 years without a change of ownership.”

April also saw an increase in household bills, with energy costs climbing by £111 and water bills by £123 for the average family. This rise in expenses is motivating owners of larger rural properties to downsize to more manageable homes.

Research from estate agency Knight Frank indicates that the current number of properties available is 3% greater than last year, although buyer numbers have decreased by 7%. The combination of elevated taxes deterring second-home purchasers and prevailing uncertainties—especially regarding mortgage rates—continues to make buyers hesitant, according to Aneisha Beveridge, head of research at Hamptons.

If global economic tensions, including a potential trade war between the U.S. and China, prompt central banks to react, borrowers could benefit from accelerated rate reductions. Beveridge states, “This could lead to lower mortgage rates, potentially decreasing costs for both buying and renting.”

Moreover, buyers are now facing higher stamp duty than they did a month ago, as the thresholds for this tax have reverted to previous levels after having been adjusted upward in September 2022.

Given the cautious nature of buyers at present, sellers should be mindful when pricing their properties. Hancock comments, “Two decades ago, substantial properties with six or seven bedrooms and ample land were in high demand, but now they are stagnating in today’s market.” The rising renovation costs and lack of skilled tradespeople mean buyers are increasingly interested in pristine homes and negotiating more aggressively for those needing updates.

James Cleland, head of the country department at Knight Frank, remarks, “This is not a market for high aspirations; buyers are focusing on competitively priced properties. Selling is possible, but only if you’re willing to adopt a practical approach.”

On a positive note for sellers situated in the home counties, larger homes that are well-connected to London’s transport facilities are regaining popularity. Many individuals have now established regular commuting patterns, either full-time or on set days, favoring suburban residences over more remote countryside properties that gained traction during the pandemic.

Alun Graham, head of country house sales at Winkworth’s Reading office, observes that well-off buyers in their thirties to fifties “are actively seeking properties with spacious gardens” and prioritize “seclusion while ensuring a reasonable commute to London. Privacy is a significant factor, with many looking for homes featuring extensive land.”

Furthermore, the weather’s role in market dynamics cannot be overlooked. More favorable weather conditions enhance property viewings significantly, allowing buyers to explore numerous listings in a village before unwinding at a pub garden. The Met Office revealed that March saw a 66% increase in sunshine in the UK compared to the previous year, indicating its potential impact on buyer engagements.