There is something truly magical about summer on the English Riviera. As July 2026 unfolds, the coastal walks from Meadfoot to Anstey’s Cove are bustling, the vibrant community in Teignbridge is soaking up the sun, and the Torbay property market is presenting a more measured picture than many sellers may have hoped for. Whether you are walking through the charming streets of Brixham or enjoying a coffee overlooking the harbour in Torquay, it’s hard not to notice the "For Sale" and "To Let" signs that reflect a shifting landscape, with softer pricing and a larger-than-usual summer slowdown shaping decisions.
For many homeowners and investors in our sought-after location, the big question this summer is: Should I sell or should I let?
The market in 2026 has brought about significant changes, particularly for landlords. Navigating these waters requires a local expert who understands not just the bricks and mortar, but the evolving legislation that shapes how we move home. At Butterworth Sales and Lettings, we’ve been keeping a close eye on these trends to help you make the right choice for your lifestyle and your pocket.
Selling with Tenants: The New Ground 1A Reality
If you are a landlord in Torquay or Newton Abbot considering a sale, the landscape looks very different than it did a few years ago. One of the most critical updates for 2026 is the mandatory use of Ground 1A for landlords who intend to sell their property.
Previously, many relied on the old "no-fault" notices, but those are now a thing of the past. Under the current rules, if you wish to recover possession of your property specifically to sell it, you must navigate several strict requirements:
- The 12-Month Protection Period: You cannot serve a Ground 1A notice within the first 12 months of a tenancy. This ensures tenants have a degree of stability, but it means landlords must plan their exit strategies much further in advance.
- A 4-Month Notice Period: Once eligible, you must provide your tenants with a minimum of four months’ notice.
- The 12-Month Re-Letting Ban: This is the real "sting" for many. If you use Ground 1A to evict but the sale fails to complete, you are generally banned from re-letting or even marketing the property for let for a full 12 months.
This makes the decision to sell a significant commitment. It’s no longer a case of "testing the water." You need to ensure your property is immaculately presented from day one to secure a buyer quickly and avoid the risk of a long-term empty home.
The Letting Alternative: A More Stable Route in 2026
With the sales market facing price softening and a larger-than-usual summer fall in activity, letting remains a more stable alternative for many owners in Torbay and Teignbridge. The demand for well-presented rental accommodation in areas like Kingsteignton and Paignton continues to hold up, even while sellers are finding that buyers are more cautious and price-sensitive.
For many, the move towards becoming a professional landlord is the smarter long-term play in 2026. By choosing to let your property, you benefit from:
- Consistent Monthly Yields: Providing a steadier income stream during a period when sale prices can be harder to secure at the level owners want.
- Retention of the Asset: You keep hold of the property rather than selling into a softer market.
- Flexibility: You retain the option to review the market later and sell when conditions, legislation, or personal timing are more favourable.
As a leading letting agent in Torbay, we see first-hand how much tenants value properties that are maintained to a high standard. In a year where selling can be more challenging, a well-managed home offers owners greater stability as well as ongoing income.
The Butterworth Managed Advantage: Creating a 'Show-Stopper'
Whether you decide to sell or let, the way your property is managed and presented is the deciding factor in its success. This is where professional property management in Torbay and property management in Teignbridge comes into its own.
A 'show-stopper' property isn't just about a fresh coat of paint. It’s about the "feel" of the home. It’s the sun-drenched balcony with far-reaching views or the secluded courtyard garden that offers a private oasis. At Butterworth, we specialise in making your property stand out.
Our full property management service ensures that:
- Compliance is seamless: We handle the complexities of Ground 1A, safety certificates, and the latest 2026 regulations so you don't have to.
- Presentation is peak: From professional photography to strategic marketing, we ensure your home is seen by the right people at the right time.
- Tenants are vetted: We find reliable tenants who will treat your property like their own, protecting your investment.
Property Spotlight: Excellence in Presentation
Please Quote DB0925 when enquiring about our premium marketing packages. To see what we mean by "immaculately presented," look at some of our recent listings.
For instance, this stunning garden flat in Meadfoot Lane, Torquay, perfectly captures the coastal lifestyle with its private courtyard and proximity to the harbour. Alternatively, our Lichfield Avenue property offers a balcony with views that are a genuine "show-stopper" for any potential tenant or buyer.
Conclusion: Making Your Move
Navigating the Summer 2026 market in the South West requires a balance of local knowledge and legal expertise. For many owners, this is not a market where a sale can be taken for granted. With softer pricing and a more noticeable seasonal dip, achieving the right result often takes sharper presentation, realistic expectations, and careful timing.
The new mandatory rules for landlords mean that professional property management in Torquay is more valuable than ever. For owners weighing up their next step, letting may offer the more dependable route in 2026, helping you generate income while avoiding the pressure of selling in a softer market. We are here to ensure that your property journey is smooth, compliant, and ultimately, successful.
If you’re ready to discuss your options, why not get in touch with our friendly team today? We’d love to help you decide whether selling or letting is the right fit for your property this summer.
