š” Looking to move in 2026? What does the Budget mean for you?
What does the November budget mean for homes in Gravesend? New tax measure will influence affordability, demand and long-term property decisions that will shape how people buy, sell and invest in property over the next few years.
The November 2025 Budget didnāt make huge waves, but the tax changes will quietly shape how people buy, sell and invest in property over the next few years.
And while very few properties in Gravesend will be caught by the new Ā£2m levy, nearby high-value areas such as Shorne - and large parts of London and the South East will feel it. When those markets shift, the ripple effects inevitably reach Gravesend too.
Ā£2m+ Property Levy: Small Group Hit, Big Market Reactions
From April 2028, homes over Ā£2m will carry a new annual charge. Not many properties locally fall into that bracket, but this change could cool demand in premium outer-London and Kent villages, altering how buyers behave across the region.
When high-end buyers become cautious, they often look slightly lower down the price ladder creating more competition in areas like Gravesend where value is stronger.
Frozen Tax Bands Squeeze Affordability
Income tax thresholds remain frozen until 2030ā31. As wages rise, more people slip into higher tax brackets, leaving less disposable income. This usually means:
- Buyers become more cautious
- Affordability tightens
- Pricing accuracy matters more than ever
Sellers: Realistic Pricing Wins
With confidence softening at the upper end and budgets squeezed more generally, sellers who price correctly from day one tend to secure stronger early interest.
The homes that sell fastest in this type of market are:
- Well-presented
- Competitively priced
- Launched with a clear strategy
If youāre thinking of moving in 2026, itās worth planning ahead now so youāre not reacting to a slower, more cautious market.
Buyers: More Choice, More Time
A cooler, more balanced market can work in buyersā favour. You may find:
- More room to negotiate
- Less pressure to rush decisions
- Better opportunities as more stock returns
If you want the edge, our Heads Up Alerts will show you new instructions before they hit the portals.
Investors: Take Stock Before Youā¦ Buy Stock
Higher tax burdens and frozen thresholds may cause some landlords to pause. But Gravesend remains a strong rental area with steady demand and realistic yields. If youāre considering letting a property, now is a sensible time to review your numbers.
Thinking of Moving or Letting in 2026? Letās Talk.
The overall market remains stable, but strategy matters more than ever. Understanding how these Budget changes affect your home, your price bracket and your timing is the key to moving with confidence.
If youāre curious about your homeās value, or a landlord wanting proper guidance on managing or growing your portfolio, give M&M Estate & Letting Agents a call. Weāre always happy to help.
š Call us on 01474 321957
š§ Email: sales@mandmprop.co.uk
š Visit: www.mandmprop.co.uk