SUMMER 2026 PROPERTY MARKET UPDATE
Understanding Cornwall's Property Market. Combining National Research, Regional Trends and Local Market Intelligence, with insights from Mark Willson, Co-Owner and Director of H Tiddy & Fine & Country Mid West Cornwall, drawing on 40 years' experience in Cornwall's property market.
For almost 19 years, H Tiddy has been the exclusive Guild of Property Professionals representative for St Mawes and The Roseland Peninsula. In July 2025, we secured the Fine & Country licence for Mid West Cornwall, broadening our coverage from Port Isaac on Cornwall's north coast to the Isles of Scilly. This combination of deep local knowledge and regional market reach gives us a unique insight into Cornwall's property market, from village cottages and family homes to some of the county's most prestigious coastal residences.
The Guild's Summer 2026 report provides insight into the wider Devon and Cornwall housing market, whilst Fine & Country's Premium Market Report focuses on the top 5% of properties, those valued above £700,000 across the South West. Together, they paint a picture of a market that is more balanced than it has been for several years, yet remains remarkably resilient.
At a national level, house prices are 1.2% higher than a year ago, although the South West has experienced a modest annual adjustment of 0.6% as increased stock levels have given buyers greater choice. Mortgage approvals remain broadly in line with last year and transaction levels continue to hold up despite wider economic uncertainty.
Read the Full Guild of Property Professionals Market Report for Devon & Cornwall.
The premium market is telling a similar story.
According to Fine & Country's latest South West report, the average premium property now sells for £959,234, with values across the region's top 5% easing by 4.6% over the past twelve months. Despite this, more than 1,000 sales above £1 million were recorded across the South West during the last year, demonstrating that demand for exceptional homes remains strong.
Explore Fine & Country's Premium Property Market Report for the South West.
What are we seeing on the ground?
The reality across Cornwall is that buyers remain active, but they are more informed and selective than they were during the extraordinary market conditions of 2020 to 2022.
The strongest demand continues to be concentrated around lifestyle-led locations, coastal villages, waterfront positions and quality homes that offer something genuinely special. Buyers are taking longer to make decisions, but when the right property comes to the market and is priced correctly, transactions are still progressing.
Our own completed sales during 2026 reflect this.
Recent purchasers have relocated from London, Surrey, Hampshire, East Sussex, Cheshire, Bristol and Devon, alongside Cornish buyers. This demonstrates that Cornwall continues to attract buyers from well beyond the county boundaries, drawn by lifestyle, community, scenery and quality of life.
Perhaps the most striking trend remains the value attached to views.
Across our completed sales this year, properties with sea, river or harbour views have achieved average values approaching £1 million, significantly outperforming homes without a water outlook. This mirrors the longer-term trends we have observed throughout Cornwall's prime coastal markets and reinforces the enduring appeal of waterfront and view-led property.
Importantly, activity is not confined to the premium market.
The Guild report highlights that needs-based movers continue to transact despite economic uncertainty, and that reflects exactly what we are seeing locally. Families continue to move for schools, employment and lifestyle reasons. Retirees continue to relocate to Cornwall. Downsizers continue to seek manageable homes in desirable locations. These fundamental motivations underpin the market regardless of wider economic headlines.
Pricing has become increasingly important.
Stock levels are higher than they were a year ago, giving buyers more choice and making unrealistic pricing harder to sustain. Sellers who enter the market with a clear understanding of current conditions are achieving the best outcomes. Those who chase yesterday's prices often find themselves adjusting later.
Looking ahead, I expect the remainder of 2026 to remain stable rather than spectacular.
Mortgage competition continues to improve. Buyer confidence is gradually returning. Demand for Cornwall's best coastal locations remains robust. Whilst modest fluctuations are inevitable, the county's combination of limited supply, exceptional scenery and enduring lifestyle appeal continues to provide a strong foundation for long-term value.
Whether we are advising on a family home in Tregony, a character cottage on the Roseland Peninsula or a prime waterfront residence in St Mawes, the same principle applies. In today's market, success comes from accurate pricing, expert presentation and a clear understanding of what today's buyers are really looking for.
By Mark Willson (FNAEA), Director and Co -Owner of H Tiddy and Fine & Country Mid West Cornwall.
Discover Our Difference.
Local Expertise. Personal Service. Global Reach.