The mutually-owned Skipton Group, which includes Skipton Building Society and estate agency Connells, said on Friday its group mortgage balances grew 7.3% year-on-year to £34.6 billion in the first half of 2026, with £13.8 billion of lending generated by Connells for UK mortgage providers.

Skipton Group said the mutual Society’s savings balance rose 5.9% year-on-year to £31.2 billion.

Group profit before tax was £110.3 million (June 2025: £135.1m).

“The Society continued to perform well, but the market backdrop for Connells in comparison has been more challenging, with the number of properties that the business exchanged contracts on down 7% compared to the strong first half seen in 2025 (which was buoyed by extra activity ahead of the stamp duty changes) …” said Skipton Group.

Skipton Group, CEO Stuart Haire said: “While the first six months of the year were marked by heightened market volatility, the group delivered profit before tax of £110.3m (June 2025: £135.1m), with the Society achieving a strong first half result, delivering more value to members, with a continued focus on unlocking home ownership for more first-time buyers.

“Connells group protected its market-leading position and invested for the future in a very challenging housing market.

“Its breadth of businesses across the property value chain, including Lettings and Surveying services, provided an important buffer in tougher market conditions.

“Our other Group businesses performed in line with expectations, while continuing to invest for future growth and resilience, including through acquisition (Jade), product expansion (Skipton Business Finance) and strengthened controls (Skipton International) …”