Looking to Move in 2026? What the Budget Means for Premium Homeowners
The November Budget brought clarity rather than disruption which is exactly what the high end of the market needed.
Prefer a quick overview? Here are the key points
• No changes to Stamp Duty which supports confidence at the upper end.
• Minimum wage increase strengthens the broader buyer pool that feeds into the premium market.
• New £2m annual levy begins in 2028 but affects almost none of East Yorkshire.
• Greater stability should support premium transactions in 2026.
• Buyers at the top end will be more selective so presentation and lifestyle marketing matter.
• Now is the right moment to prepare your high value home for the market.
My Thoughts
A Positive Budget for the Premium Market
The November Budget brought clarity rather than disruption which is exactly what the high end of the market needed. For premium homes across East Yorkshire and the surrounding villages this Budget represents stability. There are no sudden policy shifts and no stamp duty adjustments that could unsettle buyers or complicate chains.
Confidence is an important factor in the premium sector. When buyers and sellers know where they stand they make clearer, more committed decisions. With the Budget now confirmed the upper market can move into 2026 with renewed stability.
The £2 Million Levy – Not a Local Issue but Still Worth Understanding
One of the headline announcements is an annual levy on homes valued above £2 million which will begin in 2028. This measure affects a very small percentage of the country and it is almost entirely irrelevant for East Yorkshire where the market sits far below this threshold.
However, premium markets are interconnected. Policy at the top end often influences sentiment across the tiers beneath it. Some higher net worth buyers may take a more considered view on long term holding costs which can lead to more selective behaviour. For our region that simply means buyers will expect premium homes to be beautifully presented, well prepared and supported by lifestyle led marketing.
Why This Budget Supports the Upper Market
1. No Stamp Duty Changes
This is the most important element for premium sellers. Stamp duty shocks can freeze activity but this Budget brings none which means the upper tiers can continue without interruption. High value buyers now have the confidence to plan for 2026 without the fear of additional purchase costs.
2. A Stronger Foundation of Buyers
The increase in the minimum wage strengthens the broader market beneath the premium sector. Strong movement at the mid and upper mid tiers creates the natural flow that enables premium buyers to progress. A healthy market at the levels below supports the stability of the high end.
3. Stability After a Year of Uncertainty
Premium buyers often delay decisions during uncertain periods. Now that the Budget is settled we expect renewed commitment from purchasers who were waiting for clarity. This creates an opportunity for high value sellers to launch into a more confident environment.
What This Means for Premium Sellers in East Yorkshire
The upper market is always driven by quality. With buyers becoming more selective the homes that succeed in 2026 will be those that present a complete lifestyle rather than just square footage. Presentation preparation and premium marketing will be more important than ever.
Correct pricing will also play a key role. Buyers at this level are sophisticated and value driven. They expect to see evidence of quality and they respond strongly to homes that have been launched perfectly from day one.
For anyone thinking of moving in 2026 the smart first step is to gain clarity on your position. Understanding where your property sits within the premium landscape allows you to plan the right launch date strategy and marketing approach.
What This Means for Premium Buyers
For high value purchasers the environment is highly favourable. A stable market means more choice and more time to make decisions. Sellers are motivated and prices are steady rather than inflated. Buyers will also benefit from early access to opportunities through our discreet database. Many of the finest homes never reach the wider portals.
Registering for early access ensures you see premium properties before they become public and allows you to move ahead of the general market.
Looking Ahead to 2026
This Budget brings reassurance rather than disruption which is positive news for premium homeowners. With no changes to stamp duty and a clearer economic backdrop the high end of the market enters 2026 in a far stronger position than many expected.
If you are considering a premium move in the next 12 to 18 months we would be delighted to guide you through the outlook for your home and your specific price bracket. Planning early helps ensure you launch at the right moment and achieve the strongest result.