The latest data from Halifax and Nationwide shows annual house price growth accelerating in early 2026, driven by constrained supply and resilient demand despite elevated mortgage rates. First-time buyers continue to face the most challenging conditions in a decade.
🏘️Average UK house prices edged higher in February 2026, reaching £298,837 — a 0.4% monthly rise and 4.1% annual increase, according to the latest Halifax House Price Index.
🏦The Monetary Policy Committee voted 7–2 to hold the base rate at 4.5% at its March 2026 meeting. Two members voted for a 25bps cut. Markets are pricing in one to two cuts before year-end.
🏛️The temporary SDLT nil-rate threshold reverted to £125,000 on 1 April 2025 after the holiday period ended. First-time buyer relief remains at £425,000. We explain who is affected and by how much.
🔑The Renters' Rights Bill passed into law in late 2025, abolishing Section 21 'no-fault' evictions. We outline the key changes, new notice periods and how to stay compliant as a private landlord.
Several major lenders have relaunched 95% LTV products in early 2026, aided by a government-backed guarantee scheme. We weigh the benefits against the risks for first-time buyers.
📊Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham and Sheffield recorded higher annual price growth than London in 2025, continuing a structural trend driven by remote working, infrastructure investment and relative affordability.
The government has pledged to deliver 1.5 million new homes by 2029 through sweeping planning reform. We look at the obstacles, the green belt debate and what it means for property values.
From 2028, rental properties in England and Wales must meet a minimum EPC rating of C to be let. We explain the costs of upgrading, available grants and what happens if you don't comply.
Get the week's biggest property news, mortgage rate movements and market data delivered to your inbox every Friday.