UK house prices edge up to hit two-year high
- House prices increased by +0.3% in September, matching rise seen in August
- Year-on-year prices are up +4.7%, still the strongest rate since November 2022
- Higher annual growth continues to reflect the base impact of weaker prices a year ago
- Typical property now costs £293,399 (compared to £292,540 in August), highest since June 2022
- Average amount paid by first-time buyers now around £1,000 less than two years ago
- Northern Ireland continues to record the strongest annual house price growth in the UK
Amanda Bryden, Head of Mortgages, Halifax, said:
UK house prices climbed for the third month in a row in September, with a slight increase of +0.3%, or £859 in cash terms. Annual growth edged up to +4.7%, the highest rate since November 2022. This brings the average property price up to £293,399, just shy of the record high of £293,507 set in June 2022.
It’s essential to view these recent gains in context. While the typical property value has risen by around £13,000 over the past year, this increase is largely a recovery of the ground lost over the previous 12 months. Looking back two years, prices have increased by just +0.4% (£1,202).
Market conditions have steadily improved over the summer and into early autumn. Mortgage affordability has been easing thanks to strong wage growth and falling interest rates. This has boosted confidence among potential buyers, with the number of mortgages agreed up over 40% in the last year and now at their highest level since July 2022.
While improved mortgage affordability should continue to support buyer activity – boosted by anticipated further cuts to interest rates – housing costs remain a challenge for many. As a result we expect property price growth over the rest of this year and into next to remain modest.
Read the full report for more insights on the current state of the UK housing market: Halifax Price Index September 2024
Source: Halifax
