As we move into the second half of 2026, the local property market shows no signs of letting up, on the back of a buoyant 2025. Swoffers’ local market negotiator Olivia Phillips takes an in depth look at the defining characteristics of the current landscape.
Guernsey’s property market continues to demonstrate remarkable resilience and strength, building on the momentum we experienced throughout 2025, which was the most successful year in Swoffers’ history.
The first half of this year has delivered a record-breaking start for our business, with sales activity exceeding expectations across many sectors of the market. Swoffers sold the highest value local market property of the year so far, at a record-breaking £4m. While economic uncertainty and higher borrowing costs remain topics of discussion internationally, the local market has proven that demand for quality Guernsey property remains exceptionally strong.
One of the defining characteristics of the current market is that it is highly price-sensitive. Buyers are active, engaged and willing to move quickly when they identify value, but they are also extremely well-informed. Properties that are launched at realistic and accurate price levels are attracting strong interest and, in many cases, achieving successful sales within a relatively short period of time. Conversely, properties that are ambitiously priced are often finding buyers more difficult to secure.
This reinforces a message we have been consistently sharing with vendors: today’s market rewards realism. Those sellers who listen to market evidence and price appropriately from the outset are achieving the best outcomes.
Another notable feature of the market is the return of the property chain. During the years immediately following Covid, we became somewhat spoiled by an unusually high number of cash buyers. Whether driven by lifestyle changes, relocations or accumulated savings, these purchasers often enabled transactions to proceed quickly and with minimal complications.
However, the reality is that chains are a perfectly normal feature of a healthy housing market. As more people move for family, employment or lifestyle reasons, transactions naturally become interconnected. While chains can create additional complexity, they are also evidence of market confidence and mobility.
The main frustration for buyers and sellers involved in chains remains the inability to have contracts signed significantly ahead of completion. This can leave parties exposed to uncertainty and can occasionally place unnecessary pressure on transactions. Encouragingly, it is clear that both lenders and advocates have recognised this challenge and are actively exploring ways to improve the process. Any measures that increase certainty and reduce risk for buyers and sellers will be welcomed by the market.
At the upper end of the market, we have seen further evidence of confidence among high-net-worth purchasers. This year marked a significant milestone with the local market breaking through the £4 million barrier for the first time. Not only is this an important headline figure, but it also reflects the enduring appeal of Guernsey as a place to live, invest and do business.
The strength of activity at the premium end demonstrates that buyers continue to recognise the island’s unique combination of lifestyle, stability and community. It is a positive indicator for the wider market and reinforces confidence across all sectors.
While stock levels across much of the market remain relatively healthy, one challenge continues to persist: the shortage of quality family homes. Well-presented three-, four- and five-bedroom properties in desirable locations continue to attract significant interest, often generating competition among buyers. This imbalance between supply and demand remains one of the key issues facing the local market.
Looking ahead, the fundamentals remain encouraging. Demand remains strong, confidence is evident across multiple price brackets and transaction levels continue to outperform expectations. While realistic pricing, patience and good advice remain essential ingredients for success, the Guernsey property market enters the second half of the year in robust health.
For sellers, buyers, and those considering their next move, there is every reason to remain optimistic about the opportunities that lie ahead. Get in touch to discuss your plans, email sales@swoffers.co.uk or call us on 01481 711766.
