The latest house price data suggests a housing market that remains relatively stable so far in 2026, with modest changes in values depending on how you measure them. After a strong rise in January, prices have largely plateaued, highlighting a market where confidence is returning but affordability and choice remain key influences.

Halifax House Price Index – January 2026

According to the latest Halifax House Price Index, the average UK house price in January 2026 stood at £300,077. This represented a 0.7% monthly increase, recovering from a small fall late in 2025, and an annual rise of +1.0%. 

Halifax commented that the market entered the new year on a steady footing, with wage growth outpacing property price inflation and more mortgage deals now available below 4%, supporting buyer affordability.

Rightmove Asking Prices – February 2026

Rightmove’s data for February 2026 showed that the average asking price of newly listed homes was virtually unchanged at £368,019, down just £12 on January, but still reflecting the strongest start to a year for asking prices since 2020. 

January’s earlier rise of +2.8% boosted the early-year picture, even though February saw prices stabilise amid a high number of homes for sale and steady buyer activity.

Nationwide and Hometrack Signals

While the latest Nationwide index figures for January 2026 also point to modest annual increases, broader market insights from Hometrack suggest that house price inflation in 2025 was around +1.1% with housing sales at their highest level in several years. 

Hometrack’s analysis indicates that sales activity remains resilient and that first-time buyers have been particularly active in recent months.

What This Means in Practice

The mixed signals from different indices are typical during seasonal transitions and when market sentiment is evolving.

• Asking price data (Rightmove) reflects what sellers are seeking, often showing stronger early year gains when confidence improves.
  
• Transactional data (like Halifax and Nationwide) tend to show more gradual, measured changes because they are based on completed or mortgage-approving transactions.

Taken together, the latest data suggests that while headline growth remains modest, there are pockets of activity, particularly among first time buyers and movers who feel more confident with improving mortgage affordability.

Regional variations continue to matter as well. Some areas, particularly where prices are lower and affordability is stronger, have seen relatively firmer demand and price resilience. However, higher cost southern markets have lagged slightly.

Our Thoughts

Overall, the housing market in early 2026 feels stable rather than volatile. After a sharper rise in January, prices have levelled off, reflecting a balance between renewed confidence and the practical constraints of affordability and choice.

For homeowners and prospective buyers, the current picture means:

• There is no evidence of sharp price falls, but neither are we seeing rapid price inflation.
  
• Higher stock levels give buyers more choice and negotiation power.
  
• Understanding local market conditions remains critical, as national averages can mask regional differences.

If you’re thinking about moving home, remortgaging, or simply reviewing where prices stand in your area, this steadier market backdrop means plans can be considered with confidence based on data, not headlines.

Information correct at time of writing – February 2026.