Average UK Asking Prices Rise 0.7% in September, First Increase Since May
UKPulse Property Desk
Average newly listed asking prices for homes in the UK increased by 0.7% in September, reaching £367,440. This marks the first monthly rise since May, despite ongoing mortgage volatility.
- Average newly listed asking prices rose by 0.7% (+£2,441) in September to £367,440.
- This is the first monthly increase in average asking prices since May.
- The average two-year fixed mortgage rate has increased to 5.29% from 5.09% last month.
Buyer activity has picked up from August into September, with average newly listed asking prices rising by 0.7% (+£2,441) this month to £367,440. This is the first monthly increase recorded since May, according to Rightmove's latest House Price Index.
This above-average price rise for the time of year could indicate the start of the usual autumn market bounce. However, buyer enquiries remain 9% lower than last year, and prices are 0.8% below last year's figures and 2.3% below the start of summer.
While 61% of homes coming to market find a buyer on average, success varies regionally. Scotland sees 91% of homes selling, compared to 42% in London. In the North West, 71% find a buyer, while the South East records 56%.
The average two-year fixed mortgage rate has risen to 5.29%, up from 5.09% last month. This increase in mortgage rates continues to affect buyer affordability.
Why this matters: The rise in average asking prices and buyer activity suggests a potential shift in the housing market after a subdued summer, though mortgage rate increases continue to impact affordability.
What this means for you: If you are a buyer, competitive pricing remains a key factor in securing a sale, and understanding your personal affordability is important due to rising mortgage rates. If you are a seller, local market conditions significantly influence your chances of selling, with success rates varying by region.