Apartments are an important part of England’s housing market. This is particularly true for first-time buyers, older people, investors. and those who choose to live close to employment and transport. But which apartments in England are in demand now as the market stands?
Not All Apartments Attract The Same Level Of Interest
However, not all apartments are currently attracting the same level of interest. Buyers are becoming more selective about location, running costs, condition, and the practical advantages a particular property offers.
The current market is challenging for apartment sellers too. Zoopla reported in June 2026 that flats were the weakest-performing property type. With more than two-thirds of one- and two-bedroom flats listed during the year still unsold.
At the same time, flats are considerably cheaper than houses, making them potentially attractive to buyers working within tighter budgets.
Location Remains One Of The Strongest Influences
Location dictates which apartments in England are in demand. Properties within convenient reach of railway stations, town centers, employment areas, universities, hospitals and other everyday facilities can appeal to several different groups of buyers.
An apartment that allows someone to walk to shops, restaurants or public transport can be particularly attractive to people who do not want the expense or inconvenience of maintaining a large house.
London provides a clear example. Zoopla’s May 2026 data reveals that more than half of first-time buyer inquiries in London were focused on flats.
And Two-Bedroom Apartments Are An Entry Point
One- and two-bedroom apartments can provide an entry point into the property market at a substantially lower price than many houses. Zoopla reported in July 2026 that the average UK house cost about 1.7 times the price of an average flat, the widest difference recorded in its data.
This price difference can determine which apartments in England are in demand. A well-priced apartment attracts buyers who cannot afford a house in the same area.
Affordability Is Not Simply About Purchase Price
However, affordability is not simply about the purchase price. Buyers are increasingly examining service charges, ground rent arrangements, insurance, maintenance costs and the remaining length of the lease before committing themselves.
Apartments With Useful Outdoor Space Add Value
A balcony, terrace, communal garden or private outdoor area can influence which apartments in England are in demand. This is particularly relevant to buyers who want some of the convenience of apartment living without completely giving up access to outdoor space.
The quality and usability of the space matters too. A reasonably sized balcony with attractive views may add practical value, while a tiny or poorly positioned balcony may have little effect on demand.
Buyers Are Paying Attention To Energy-Efficient Living
Buyers are also paying attention to the condition and running costs of properties. Modern apartments with good insulation, efficient heating and well-maintained communal areas can be easier to live with and may have lower ongoing costs.
Energy efficiency can therefore form part of the overall appeal, particularly when household budgets are under pressure.
Apartments Suitable For Different Stages Of Life
Apartments with lifts, level access, and manageable maintenance requirements can appeal to older buyers and people with mobility considerations. A secure entrance, parking and proximity to essential services can also be important when considering which apartments in England are in demand’
Meanwhile, younger professionals may prioritise fast transport connections, nearby employment, restaurants and leisure facilities.
Suitability For People Living In The Area
This means that an apartment does not necessarily need to be large to dictate which apartments in England are in demand. Suitability for the people most likely to live in the area, can be more important than its floor area alone.
What Buyers Are Checking For Right Now
Demand does not automatically make every apartment easy to sell. Buyers are increasingly looking beyond the appearance of a property.
Lease length, service charges, ground rent, planned major works and the financial health of the building’s management arrangements can all affect a buyer’s decision. Zoopla has specifically highlighted lease length, service charges and ground rent terms as issues buyers should investigate.
The Wider Market Also Varies Between Regions
The wider market also varies considerably between regions. Recent Zoopla data shows stronger housing-market conditions in parts of northern England than in London and southern England. This is why local research remains essential.
The most useful question is not simply whether flats are in demand. It is whether this particular apartment, in this particular location, offers the combination of price, condition, convenience and manageable running costs that today’s buyers are looking for.
