Unlocking the Secrets of the Leeds Property Market Across Different Price Ranges

As a Leeds agent, I have witnessed first-hand how the Leeds property market operates and the various factors that influence property sales.

One intriguing aspect is the difference in saleability across different price ranges.

In this article, we will delve into the dynamics of selling properties in relation to their price ranges and explore the factors contributing to varying sale rates.

Price Range and Saleability

Leeds properties are often categorised into distinct price ranges, such as entry-level, mid-range, and upper-quartile luxury.

Each segment attracts different buyers with varying purchasing power, preferences, and investment goals.

These factors play a crucial role in determining the saleability of properties within each price range.

Entry-Level Leeds Properties: Quick Turnaround (Up to £170,000)

Entry-level properties, typically affordable homes suitable for Leeds first-time buyers or Leeds buy-to-let landlords, tend to have a relatively high saleability rate. The demand for these Leeds properties is often robust, driven by increasing population, rising interest in homeownership, and government incentives for first-time buyers. Moreover, entry-level properties usually attract Leeds buy-to-let landlords, as they tend to offer yields and returns, leading to a quicker sale process.

Mid-Range Leeds Properties: Normally a Balanced Market (£170,000 to £325,000)

Mid-range properties occupy a middle ground, appealing to a broader range of buyers with more financial flexibility. Market conditions, location, and property features generally influence the saleability of these properties. In a balanced market, where demand and supply are relatively equal, mid-range properties tend to sell at a moderate pace. Factors such as property condition, amenities, proximity to schools, transportation, and amenities play a vital role in attracting potential buyers.

Upper Quartile Leeds Luxury Properties: Normally a Longer Selling Time (£325,000+)

Top-end luxury Leeds properties, characterised by their exclusivity, unique features, and high price tags (in the top 25% price-wise – hence the phrase Upper Quartile), often require a longer selling time than other price ranges. The pool of prospective buyers for luxury properties is smaller, requiring individuals with significant financial resources. The selling process involves careful marketing strategies, targeted advertising, and connections with affluent buyers. Patience is critical when dealing with luxury properties, as it may take months to find the right buyer who appreciates the property's exceptional qualities and is willing to meet the asking price.

So, let us look at the saleability of Leeds property by price band.

The following can be seen:

• Entry-Level Leeds Properties – this market is doing rather well, especially the range £150k to £200k.
• Mid-Range Leeds Properties – as expected, things are a little more challenging in areas of this price range as it is more affected by the current higher mortgage rates, with the best range being £250k to £300k.
• Upper Quartile Leeds Luxury Properties – the higher-end properties, compared to last year, are still holding their own (although let us not forget the actual numbers of houses are lower). Things are tougher in the £1m to £2m range.

However, there are other factors influencing saleability than just the price band.

Property Market Conditions in Leeds

The overall state of the Leeds property market greatly influences the saleability of properties across all price ranges. In last week's article, I discussed whether Leeds was in the buyers', sellers’ or balanced market. During a sellers’ market, where demand outweighs supply, all properties sell quickly regardless of their price range. In contrast, in a buyers’ market, where supply exceeds demand, properties may take longer to sell, especially in higher price ranges.

For example, nationally, any property up to £200,000, which is considered the lower quartile of properties (i.e., the bottom 25% of properties by value), have had a saleability rate of 75.3% in 2023, yet last year it was 90.9%.

Looking at the top end of the market nationally, last year, 51.9% of properties over £1m marketed throughout the year had a sale agreed on them. For 2023, it’s been 35.1%.

Location Location Location (in Leeds)

The location of a property plays a crucial role in its saleability. Desirable neighbourhoods and housing estates/developments in Leeds with excellent amenities, proximity to outstanding primary schools, transportation, and shops often attract more buyers, regardless of the price range. Buyers are willing to pay a premium for properties situated in prime locations.

Property Condition and Features

The condition and features of a Leeds property significantly impact its saleability. Well-maintained ten out of ten properties with attractive features, modern amenities, and updated bathrooms and kitchens are more likely to attract potential buyers across all price ranges. Would it also surprise you that properties that need absolute gutting (i.e., one or two out of ten properties) also attract many buyers as they often wish to put their mark on it? Interestingly, properties requiring some moderate renovations or lacking desirable features (i.e. those in the mid-range of four to six out of ten) may experience slower sales or necessitate price adjustments.

Targeted Marketing and Pricing

Effective marketing strategies tailored to each price range can enhance the saleability of properties. Accurate pricing is crucial to attract potential buyers and generate interest. Overpricing will deter buyers, while underpricing may lead to missed opportunities for maximising your returns. A skilled Leeds estate agent like ourselves can provide valuable insights into pricing strategies and develop marketing campaigns to target specific buyer segments.

Final Thoughts on the Saleability of Leeds Property

Understanding the dynamics of selling properties across different price ranges is essential for buyers and sellers in the Leeds property market. Whether you are contemplating a move or planning to stay put until late this year or even 2024, it is worth assessing the saleability of your home in Leeds.

As the Leeds property market continues to evolve, it is always beneficial to stay informed about the value of your Leeds property.