UK house prices rose by 0.3% in April, reversing March’s dip and bringing the average property value to £297,781, according to Halifax. Annual growth hit 3.2%, the highest so far this year.

Regional highlights:

• Northern Ireland led with 8.1% annual growth (avg. £208,220)

• Wales saw a 4.7% rise (avg. £229,079)

• Scotland followed with 4.6% (avg. £214,011)

• In England, the North West outperformed with 4.1% (avg. £240,975)

• London remained the most expensive at £543,346, despite just 1.3% growth

• The South West lagged with a 0.9% rise (avg. £304,451)

Market drivers:
A rush to beat stamp duty changes spurred early-year activity, though this hasn’t led to runaway price increases. Halifax’s Amanda Bryden highlighted the market’s rare stability, while agents report motivated sellers and steady buyer interest.

Industry voices—from Propertymark to Foxtons and OnTheMarket—echo confidence in the market’s resilience, though note affordability constraints and cooler post-incentive conditions are shaping buyer behaviour.