Rightmove Price Index - What it means for Sussex sellers this October
Rightmove reports a resilient market this October. Across Brighton, Shoreham and Lewes, steady demand continues, but realistic pricing is key to securing a sale this autumn.
The Market Remains Resilient
Average asking price: £371,422 | Monthly change: +0.3% | Annual change: -0.1%
October’s Rightmove House Price Index shows a steady picture. The average asking price has crept up by just 0.3% this month to £371,422, below the ten-year October average of +1.1%. While the market remains resilient, there’s not enough momentum to trigger the typical autumn bounce we often see after the summer.
Across the country, both new buyer enquiries and new listings in September were down 5% compared to last year. However, 2025 as a whole still looks relatively healthy: sales agreed are up 5% year-to-date, and the number of homes coming to market is also up 5%.
The slight national dip of 0.1% over the year has mainly been driven by London and southern regions, where higher stamp duty, more stock, and pre-Budget caution are cooling confidence. In contrast, Scotland, Wales and the North have all seen growth of at least 1%.
Here in Sussex, that same caution is playing out.
Across Brighton, Shoreham and Lewes, buyer activity remains steady but selective. Properties that are well presented, legally prepared and priced realistically are still moving, while anything slightly overpriced is sitting longer. We’re also noticing that the “time to secure a buyer” gap is widening between well-priced homes and those testing the market. Rightmove’s data supports this: listings that receive an enquiry on day one are 22% more likely to sell than those that don’t get attention within two weeks.
Local perspective
- Brighton & Hove: Still one of the most active areas in the South East, with strong demand for energy-efficient homes and well-located flats. However, there’s more stock on the market than last year, so pricing and presentation are critical.
- Shoreham-by-Sea: Remains popular with families and London buyers seeking value on the coast. Demand is steady, but buyers have more choice than in 2024. Homes that are “Market Ready” – with legal packs complete and marketing materials polished – are the ones progressing quickest.
- Lewes: Premium rural and period homes are still achieving solid results, but the top end of the market has slowed slightly while buyers wait to see what November’s Budget brings for property taxation and stamp duty.
Mortgage and affordability trends
Mortgage rates have largely plateaued ahead of the Budget. The cost of funding has fallen slightly, and some lenders are expected to edge rates down in the coming weeks. Combined with stable house prices and flexible lending criteria, affordability has improved compared to last year.
Rightmove’s take
Rightmove’s analysts say the market is resilient, but there’s simply too much stock to fuel strong price growth. The portal continues to push for stamp duty reform, describing it as one of the biggest barriers to mobility in the market.
Our view
From our vantage point across Brighton, Shoreham and Lewes, this all rings true. The market is ticking along, but it’s price sensitive and cautious. The most successful sellers are those who combine realistic pricing with excellent presentation. 2025’s market is more balanced with more stock, more choice, and a more measured tone overall.
Sellers who adapt early, price sensibly and prepare properly are still securing solid results.
Are you thinking of a move over the next 6-12 months? We would love to help advise you on how to achieve the best outcome.