In recent years, Herne Bay has emerged as one of Kent’s most attractive seaside towns for homebuyers and investors alike. With its blend of coastal charm, improving infrastructure, and strong community feel, the town continues to grow in popularity—especially with those seeking a lifestyle change without straying too far from London. According to estate agents in Herne Bay, both buyers and sellers are increasingly active in the market, but as with any area, understanding current trends is essential for making informed decisions.
Whether you’re considering buying, selling, or simply keeping an eye on the property landscape, this article explores the key trends shaping Herne Bay’s housing market in 2025—and what they mean for you.
Continued Demand for Coastal Living
The allure of living by the sea has never truly faded, but recent years have seen a notable resurgence in demand for coastal properties—partly fuelled by the post-pandemic shift in lifestyle priorities. Homebuyers are increasingly seeking homes that offer space, greenery, and easy access to nature, and Herne Bay ticks all the right boxes.
With its expansive seafront, traditional pier, and welcoming town centre, Herne Bay offers an idyllic setting for families, retirees, and remote workers. As a result, properties within walking distance of the coast—especially period homes and bungalows—are achieving strong sale prices and rarely stay on the market for long.
A Balanced Market: Prices Remain Stable
After the rapid property price growth seen in the UK between 2020 and 2022, many areas experienced a slowdown. However, Herne Bay has proven resilient. While growth has levelled off, house prices have remained relatively stable, reflecting consistent demand and a healthy supply of homes coming to market.
As of mid-2025, the average property price in Herne Bay sits slightly above the Kent average but remains more affordable than neighbouring Whitstable or Canterbury. This has helped attract both first-time buyers and families relocating from London, who see excellent value for money in the area.
For sellers, this means there’s a reliable base of motivated buyers, while buyers can still find fairly priced homes without the frenzy of sealed bids and over-asking offers that were more common a few years ago.
Increased Interest from London Buyers
One of the most consistent trends reported by estate agents in Herne Bay is the ongoing migration of buyers from London and other major cities. Drawn by the town’s coastal lifestyle and significantly lower house prices, these buyers often have larger budgets and can move quickly—especially if they’re selling up in the capital.
This has helped boost the local market while also changing the profile of buyers. While Herne Bay has long appealed to retirees and second-home owners, there’s now a noticeable uptick in younger families and professionals seeking a permanent move.
Proximity to London via the high-speed rail link at nearby Canterbury West has further fuelled this trend, making Herne Bay an increasingly viable location for hybrid workers and commuters.
New Developments and Infrastructure
As Herne Bay’s popularity grows, so too does its housing stock. Several new residential developments on the outskirts of town are contributing to a more diverse property market, offering modern homes that appeal to growing families and those seeking low-maintenance living.
Infrastructure improvements—such as better road links, improved seafront facilities, and community investments—are also playing a role in boosting buyer confidence. These developments not only support rising house values but also enhance the overall quality of life for residents.
Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
In today’s market, energy performance is playing an increasingly important role in buyer decisions. Buyers are actively looking for homes with good Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings, efficient heating systems, and potential for further eco-friendly upgrades such as solar panels or insulation.
For sellers in Herne Bay, this represents an opportunity. Even relatively simple improvements—such as installing double glazing or updating old boilers—can increase a property’s appeal and help achieve a better price. Estate agents often advise clients on which improvements are most likely to deliver a good return on investment.
READ ALSO: Manchester Investment Opportunities: Where to Buy Property in 2025
The Rental Market: Steady Demand and Rising Yields
While this article focuses primarily on buying and selling, it’s worth noting that Herne Bay’s rental market remains strong. As more people consider renting before buying—or relocating temporarily—there is steady demand for well-presented rental properties across the town.
Landlords can expect competitive yields, especially for two- and three-bedroom homes near the seafront or train station. This has led to growing interest in buy-to-let investments, with Herne Bay offering a lower entry point compared to nearby hotspots.
Tips for Buyers
If you’re thinking about buying in Herne Bay in 2025, consider the following:
- Act fast on desirable properties, especially those near the coast, as demand often outstrips supply.
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage to demonstrate serious intent.
- Work with a local estate agent who understands the nuances of the Herne Bay market.
Tips for Sellers
Selling a home in Herne Bay? Keep these tips in mind:
- Stage your home to appeal to lifestyle-focused buyers, including London movers.
- Make energy-efficient upgrades where possible.
- Price realistically based on recent local sales—overpricing can lead to delays and fewer viewings.
- Choose an estate agent with local experience and a strong online presence.
Final Thoughts
The Herne Bay property market is in a healthy and encouraging position. With stable prices, consistent demand, and continued investment in local infrastructure, both buyers and sellers have plenty of reason to feel optimistic in 2025.
Whether you’re purchasing your first home, upsizing, or preparing to sell, working closely with knowledgeable estate agents in Herne Bay can provide the local insight and practical guidance needed to make your move successful.
As the town continues to evolve and grow in popularity, now could be the ideal time to make your move—and secure your place in one of Kent’s most promising coastal communities.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: London Property Market Forecast: What to Expect in the Second Half of 2025
