The weather is (thankfully!) beginning to cool, and now you’re likely thinking, let’s get moved and settled before Christmas!
As the Bank Holiday weekend approaches, Autumn is beginning, the children are heading back to school, routines return and, for many families, September feels like the start of a new chapter.
At HGH, we call it the ‘Back to School’ market, and it could be one of the most exciting periods of the year for buyers and sellers.
Mortgage rates are giving buyers something to think about
After the significant changes we’ve seen over the past few years, mortgage rates have become much more competitive than the highs we saw previously.
As of 28 August 2026, Rightmove’s latest mortgage tracker shows average fixed rates of around 4.91% for a two-year fix and 4.95% for a five-year fix at 75% loan-to-value. For buyers with a smaller deposit, average 95% LTV rates are currently around 4.97% for two years and 4.98% for five years.
Rates aren’t moving in a straight line, but there are signs of greater stability and even small improvements in mortgage pricing can make a meaningful difference to affordability.
Why September works so well for families
The ‘Back to School’ market is particularly important for families.
Once the summer holidays are over, suddenly, thoughts about needing an extra bedroom, a bigger garden, a better location or a shorter commute become much more immediate.
What about first-time buyers?
Mortgage rates around the 5% mark are still a consideration, but they’re a very different proposition from the uncertainty many buyers faced when rates were significantly higher.
With lenders competing for business and mortgage products changing regularly, getting an up-to-date affordability assessment could reveal that your options are better than you think.
You don’t have to be ready to buy today. You just need to know what’s possible.
And for investment buyers…
For investors, September brings the return of activity after the summer slowdown.
More buyers returning to the market means more opportunities to assess demand, identify potential investments and make informed decisions about where the market is heading.
Whether you’re looking for your first investment property or adding to an existing portfolio, having the right property, at the right price, with the right numbers behind it remains key.
Our strongest month yet
And there’s another reason we’re heading into September feeling particularly positive.
August has been our best month for exchanges so far.
It’s a fantastic result for our team and gives us real momentum going into the autumn market.
So, whether you’re thinking about selling, looking for your next home, buying your first property or searching for your next investment, September could be the perfect time to make your move.
The ‘Back to School’ market is here!
📍 Swanage: 01305 605000
