As we move through 2025, there is no denying that the UK property market is shifting. With regular headlines predicting fluctuations and uncertainties, one question we often hear are, ‘Are house prices dropping in Kent?’ We always aim to offer a clear and realistic perspective for buyers and homeowners, so in this blog we are going to dive into what’s happening in the Garden of England.
A Mixed Market
It’s useful to look at the broader landscape as well, not just Kent. After the intense growth during and following the pandemic, the housing market began to slow down. Interest rates, inflation and cautious buyers’ sentiment have all played a role in the slowing demand. Several banks across the UK, like Nationwide, have reported modest declines in average house prices over the past 12 months.
So, Are Prices Dropping in Kent?
The short answer is yes, in some areas, but it’s far from a uniform decline. Kent is a unique blend of coastal towns, commuter friendly locations and charming countryside, and doesn’t always follow the same patterns as London or the rest of the South East. While some towns are seeing slight dips in average prices, others remain resilient.
Certain parts of Kent that saw rapid price growth during the pandemic (particularly rural or coastal towns that became popular with remote workers) are now seeing a correction. Areas such as Whitstable, Deal and parts of Thanet have experienced modest decreases of 2-5% compared to their 2023 peaks. These aren’t dramatic crashes, but rather small adjustments after a period of intense growth.
In commuter towns like Sevenoaks and Tunbridge Wells, price growth has slowed, and some properties are taking a little longer to sell. Buyers are being more cautious, and sellers are having to be realistic about valuations.
Where Prices Are Holding Firm
Interestingly, demand remains strong in central Tunbridge Wells, particularly for high-quality homes in sought-after locations. We’ve seen continued interest in well designed developments like our own at Camden Hill and Little Mount Sion, where location, craftsmanship and modern living spaces combine to offer long-term value.
This is the same for family-friendly areas with good schools and excellent transport links like Tonbridge, West Malling and parts of Maidstone. They continue to attract steady demand due to their desirable attributes. While we’re not seeing the sky-high price increases of recent years, the market here remains relatively stable.
Why Is This Happening?
There are a few reasons why this is happening:
- Interest Rates and Mortgage Affordability
With the Bank of England’s base rate remaining higher than we’ve seen in previous years, borrowing has become more expensive. This affects how much buyers can afford and often leads to price adjustments, particularly in areas where affordability was already stretched.
- Inflation and Cost of Living
General economic pressure means people are more cautious about big financial decisions. Some buyers are delaying purchases, hoping for lower prices or improved interest rates, which in turn impacts demand.
- Post-Covid Market Correction
House prices surged during the pandemic as buyers prioritised space, gardens, and rural living. What we’re seeing now is a natural rebalancing after that boom.
- Local Supply and Demand
In Kent, localised supply and demand dynamics are crucial. In towns where there’s a shortage of quality housing, particularly new-build or renovated properties, prices are far more stable. That’s why our focus at Presence & Co. has always been on delivering homes that meet modern expectations for design, energy efficiency and convenience.
What This Means for Buyers
For those considering buying in Kent, this could be a good moment to make a move. With a little more breathing space in the market, buyers have the opportunity to negotiate, assess their options, and find homes that truly suit their needs.
However, it’s important to look beyond headlines and consider long-term value. While short-term fluctuations make the news, well-located, high-quality homes in desirable areas have a strong history of holding their value and appreciating over time.
We often advise clients to think about lifestyle as well as investment potential. If you’re planning to stay in a property for several years, a small dip in the market now is unlikely to outweigh the benefits of securing the right home in the right location.
What This Means for Sellers
For sellers, it’s more important than ever to present your property well and price it realistically. Homes that are thoughtfully designed, well-maintained, and energy-efficient still attract serious buyers, especially if they’re in a great neighborhood.
If you’re developing or renovating a property to sell, quality workmanship and modern living features can help your home stand out, even in a cooler market. At Presence & Co., we’ve seen strong demand for homes that offer both character and contemporary convenience, and this is reflected in our growing portfolio across Kent.
The Future of the Kent Property Market
While no one can predict the property market with complete certainty, there are several positive signs that look promising. Price growth may be slower than previous years, but experts are still confident that Kent remains a solid long term choice. Here are the reasons why:
- Connectivity: Kent has excellent rail links to London, making it an attractive location for commuters and hybrid workers.
- Lifestyle appeal: Kent offers a unique blend of coastal, rural and town living, which makes it ideal for families, professionals and retirees.
- Development opportunities: There is ongoing investment in new housing, regeneration projects and community spaces which helps support local property value.
Presence & Co. remain confident in Kents future, our projects reflect the belief that considered, well-built homes in great locations will always be in demand, regardless of short term fluctuations.
If you’re thinking of buying, selling or developing property in Kent and would like to speak with a team that truly understands the local landscape, we’d be happy to help. At Presence & Co., we take pride in delivering high-quality homes, clear communication and reliable service, values that have guided us through every project.
