Persimmon’s private completions up 7% in “challenging conditions”

Persimmon’s private completions rose 7% during its half year, with the business remaining on track for expected full year completions. But the volume housebuilder pointed out the challenging environment in which it was operating.

Delivering its results for the six months ending June 30 2025, the volume housebuilder said private completions, rising to 3,987 homes, had driven a 4% lift in overall completions against H1 2024, totalling 4,605 homes.

The private average sales price increased 7%, reflecting a higher proportion of the Charles Church brand and “robust pricing”, with the average sales price increasing 8% to £284,047.

New housing revenue rose 12% to £1.31 billion; underlying operating profit improved 13% to £172 million. Underlying pre-tax profit increased 11% to £164.9 million.

During the half year, Persimmon saw a 5% increase in its net private sales rate per outlet per week - excluding bulk sales - to 0.62. Including bulk sales, this was 0.70 against 2024’s 0.71.

The company said its trading performance was “particularly pleasing” against a challenging market environment, with interest and mortgage rates, despite reducing, still presenting “a barrier to many potential customers”.

It noted “positive developments” of a relaxation of …