Mannleys Market Update October 2026
Welcome to this month’s property market update from Mannleys Sales & Lettings. Here’s a roundup of where things stand right now — and what to keep an eye on in the coming months.
As we head into the final months of 2026, the latest figures point to a more selective sales market and improving choice for tenants. For Telford homeowners, buyers and landlords, getting the price, presentation and preparation right remains essential.
Sales: realistic pricing and a clear plan
Across the West Midlands, sales agreed were 8% lower in July to September than in the same period last year, compared with a 6% fall nationally. Buyers are still moving, but fewer sales are being agreed, making it particularly important for sellers to stand out.
For anyone selling in Telford, that means looking carefully at competing properties, recent comparable sales and what buyers can afford. An ambitious asking price may sound appealing at a valuation, but it needs to translate into viewings and credible offers.
Nationally, 38.5% of concluded listings needed at least one price reduction during 2026 to date. That is a strong reminder that the launch price matters. Professional photography, a clear description and targeted marketing all help, but they work best alongside a price supported by evidence.
Timescales also need careful consideration. The report puts the national average at 75 days to agree a sale, followed by a further 127 days from sale agreed to exchange. Individual transactions vary considerably, but an accepted offer is only one stage of the move.
Our advice to Telford sellers is to prepare early: choose your solicitor, gather the paperwork and address potential questions before they become delays. Buyers should have their funding and solicitor arrangements ready so they can move confidently when the right property becomes available.
A quieter market can also create opportunities for those moving up the ladder. Consider the difference between your sale price and your next purchase price, alongside moving costs, rather than judging the move solely on the offer received for your current home.
Thinking of selling? We can help you build a realistic plan around your property, your next move and your timescale.
Lettings: more choice puts the focus on value
The rental picture is different. West Midlands lets agreed rose by 2% in the third quarter compared with a year earlier, showing continued activity across the region.
Nationally, new rental instructions increased by 12.1% during 2026 to date. This measures properties coming onto the market; the number available at a particular point rose more modestly, by 1.4% year on year in August.
For Telford landlords, the practical message is to keep checking how your property compares with the alternatives tenants can view. Presentation, condition and a realistic rent all influence its appeal.
National agreed rents have changed relatively little, averaging just £9 per month more than a year earlier. That does not establish the rental value of a Telford property, but it reinforces the importance of assessing each home individually rather than assuming an increase is achievable.
A well-presented property at a supported rent can offer a better overall return than holding out for a higher figure while losing income through an extended empty period.
For tenants, improving national supply is encouraging, although choice will vary by neighbourhood, property type and budget. Having your referencing information ready will help you respond promptly when a suitable home appears.
Whether you are reviewing a rental investment or preparing to let a property in Telford, our team can provide a current rental assessment and practical advice on attracting suitable tenants.
