UK house prices rise in February as chancellor avoids ‘negative speculation’

The Guardian - World NewsEN 2 min read 100% complete by Julia KolleweMarch 2, 2026 at 11:00 AM

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medium article 2 min

UK house prices rose by 0.3% in February, according to Nationwide, bringing the average price to £273,176. This follows a similar increase in January and surpasses analysts' expectations. The housing market has not slowed down in anticipation of the upcoming spring forecast, unlike the period before the November budget. Experts suggest improved affordability and mortgage availability are supporting first-time buyers, contributing to a 10% increase in housing market transactions compared to 2024. While inflation was expected to ease, rising oil prices due to international events have slightly decreased the likelihood of an imminent interest rate cut by the Bank of England.

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United States 30% Alice Haine 30% Iran 30% OnTheMarket 40% Bank of England 40% Office for Budget Responsibility 50% Robert Gardner ×250% Jason Tebb 50% Nationwide ×260% United Kingdom ×270% Rachel Reeves ×280%

Keywords

house prices 100% uk housing market 90% economic forecast 70% property tax 60% interest rate cut 50% cost of living 50% mortgage availability 50% inflation 40%

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Positive

Score: 0.30

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The Guardian - World News

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