Northern Ireland Homebuyer Demand Hits Five-Year High - What It Means for Buyers

The latest Residential Market Survey from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has revealed a significant boost in confidence across Northern Ireland’s housing market. In February, new buyer demand reached its highest level in five years, highlighting strong momentum as we move further into 2026. For those considering purchasing a home, this surge in demand reflects a market that remains both active and competitive.

Growing Confidence in the NI Housing Market

According to the latest RICS data, a net balance of 62% of surveyors reported an increase in new buyer enquiries, the highest figure recorded since April 2021.

This rise in enquiries indicates that confidence is returning to the market after a period of economic uncertainty. Buyers appear more willing to make their move, particularly as mortgage markets stabilise and longer-term economic expectations improve.

Encouragingly, activity isn’t just coming from buyers. The number of homes being listed for sale has also increased, with 28% of surveyors noting a rise in new instructions to sell.

This balance between supply and demand is essential in maintaining a healthy and sustainable housing market.

Sales and Prices Continue to Strengthen

The RICS survey also highlighted positive momentum in agreed sales. A net balance of 33% of respondents reported an increase in sales during February, suggesting that heightened interest is translating into real transactions.

At the same time, prices have continued to rise. In fact, 85% of surveyors reported house price increases over the past three months, with a strong majority expecting further price growth in the months ahead.

While rising prices reflect strong demand, they also underline an ongoing challenge within the Northern Ireland housing market: supply.

Supply Still Lagging Behind Demand

Despite the welcome increase in homes coming to market, surveyors note that supply still does not fully meet the level of demand from buyers. This imbalance has been a consistent feature of the NI housing market in recent years and continues to place upward pressure on prices.

At Hagan Homes, we’re seeing similar momentum on the ground, with increasing interest from buyers across Northern Ireland as confidence returns to the market. Delivering high-quality homes in desirable locations remains critical to meeting the needs of a growing number of buyers.

What This Means for Buyers in 2026

• For prospective homeowners, the current market signals a number of important considerations:
• Demand remains strong, particularly for well-located new homes.
• Competition among buyers may increase as confidence continues to build.
• Acting early can be beneficial, particularly as house price growth is expected to continue in the short term.
• For many buyers, new-build homes also provide additional reassurance, offering modern design, energy efficiency and the opportunity to move into a home built for contemporary living.

Looking Ahead

What We’re Seeing at Hagan Homes is a strong appetite for quality homes across Northern Ireland. The latest RICS findings reinforce what we’re seeing on the ground: buyers are returning to the market with confidence, and demand for well-designed new homes remains strong.

As the market continues to evolve throughout 2026, the focus will remain on delivering homes that meet the needs of modern homeowners, combining quality, sustainability and thoughtful design in locations where communities can thrive.