New Year. New goals. New home?
While the UK property market has been cautiously catching its breath, Cardiff’s housing scene is doing something else entirely – quietly proving it’s made of sterner stuff.
For homeowners in North Cardiff – Whitchurch, Llanishen, Heath and the surrounding suburbs – now could be the smartest moment in years to sell.
Cardiff’s unexpected strength in a cooling national market
Across the UK, 2026 has kicked off with plenty of mixed messages. House prices have plateaued in some areas, while others are seeing small dips. But Cardiff? It’s bucking the trend.
According to recent reports, buyer activity in South Glamorgan surged by 15% in December alone, with January already showing a strong uptick in valuation requests. Compared to the national average, that’s significant and a clear sign of confidence returning to the Welsh capital.
And the driving force? Cardiff’s unique blend of affordability, green spaces, strong schools, and excellent commuter links.
Families are staying loyal to North Cardiff
The North Cardiff housing market has always had its own rhythm – especially when it comes to semi-detached family homes. While other cities have seen a dip in family home transactions, the demand in areas like Whitchurch, Llanishen and Birchgrove has stayed incredibly resilient.
That’s partly down to how “sticky” these communities are. Homeowners who bought in 2010–2015 are now sitting on strong equity, with little reason to move unless they’re upsizing. So, when a well-maintained three-bedroom semi on a tree-lined road does come up for sale, it attracts eager buyers often with multiple competing offers.
If you’ve been thinking, ‘Should I sell my house in Cardiff this year?’ – this supply gap could work in your favour.
January momentum is more than a marketing gimmick
“New Year, New Home” isn’t just a catchy phrase – it’s rooted in buyer psychology. Every January, search traffic for terms like “homes for sale in Cardiff” spikes dramatically. And in 2026, that’s been supercharged.
In the first week of January alone, online property searches across South Wales jumped by 22% year on year. But what’s even more compelling is the quality of those enquiries. Buyers aren’t just browsing – they’re booking viewings, arranging mortgages, and acting fast.
If you’re ready to move on, this window of serious demand is one to catch.
What’s happening with house prices in Cardiff in 2026?
It’s a fair question and the answer’s a bit of a surprise.
While parts of England are seeing cautious buyers and price adjustments, house prices in Cardiff for 2026 have held steady, with a modest 2–3% year-on-year growth in key family suburbs. And that’s not a blip.
In North Cardiff, specifically:
- Whitchurch has seen average sale prices rise to £375,000, up from £362,000 in late 2025
- Llanishen’s average price for a semi-detached now sits around £345,000, with strong demand from first-time family buyers
- Heath and Birchgrove are holding firm, especially near top-rated schools and transport links
That stability is giving sellers the confidence to list and helping buyers justify strong offers.
Why Cardiff continues to outperform
There are a few reasons why Cardiff is standing tall:
Strong job market and stable economy
From government departments to media hubs, Cardiff has a wide employment base. Unlike cities with a single dominant employer or industry, Cardiff’s economy is diverse and that helps keep demand strong and consistent.
Excellent schools and family amenities
North Cardiff is particularly attractive to families thanks to its catchment areas, parks, and village-style high streets. When schools like Whitchurch High and Llanishen High are just down the road, it’s easy to see why homes here are snapped up quickly.
Balanced market
We’re not seeing the kind of overheated, speculative market that some English cities experienced post-pandemic. Cardiff has grown at a sustainable pace – and that’s exactly why it’s proving more resilient now.
Spotlight on estate agents on Whitchurch Road
Whitchurch Road runs right through the heart of this sought-after area – and local estate agents here are busier than ever. Unlike national portals or call centres, Cardiff-based agents offer something different: personal, in-the-know service from people who live and breathe the area.
Thinking of listing your home? Working with an agent based right here, especially one with decades of experience, means you’re tapping into a ready-made network of buyers, not just relying on the algorithms.
At Belvoir Cardiff, we know that property is personal. And your next move deserves that level of care.
Book a free property valuation today
Low supply, high impact: Why now is the time to sell
The number of semi-detached homes available in North Cardiff is currently 22% lower than this time last year. But the number of active buyers? It’s climbed.
This mismatch creates a golden opportunity. If you list in January or February before the usual spring rush, your home will have less competition and more impact. It’s a simple equation: fewer properties + more buyers = stronger offers.
What buyers are looking for right now
Understanding what today’s buyers want can help you position your home for a premium result.
Here’s what we’re seeing in 2026:
- Off-street parking is a must – especially in Whitchurch and Heath
- Open-plan living spaces are preferred, particularly for young families
- Energy efficiency is more important than ever. EPC rating C or above is now a major selling point
- Proximity to parks, cafés and local shops adds huge value
If your home ticks even some of these boxes, now’s the time to consider a move.
Timing your move around the 2026 market
Selling in the first quarter of the year isn’t just about catching that New Year buzz. It’s also about being ahead of the curve.
By April, the market will likely see a bigger influx of listings. That can create more competition, especially for similar homes in the same area. Listing now means:
- More visibility for your home
- Less downward pressure on price
- A quicker sale process with motivated buyers
And if you’re also buying? Selling now puts you in a stronger position as a chain-free or non-contingent buyer – which sellers love.
A personal, data-backed approach
At Belvoir Cardiff, we combine local insight with real-time market data. It’s not just about knowing what a house sold for six months ago – it’s about understanding what buyers are willing to pay today.
That’s why we offer free, no-obligation property valuations in Cardiff tailored to your postcode, property type and local trends.
Book a free valuation with us today
Final thoughts: Is now the right time to sell?
If you’re in North Cardiff – especially Whitchurch, Llanishen or Heath – the conditions are on your side:
- Limited stock on the market
- High buyer demand
- Strong sale prices
- Motivated movers taking advantage of New Year momentum
Add in a team who knows your street, your market, and your goals – and you’ve got a clear path forward.
Thinking “Should I sell my house in Cardiff?” – let’s find out together.
Sell smart. Sell local. Sell with Belvoir.
