Published: 10th June 2025
The English Chronicle Online
In a development that continues to puzzle economists and delight homeowners, the UK property market appears set for another year of price growth despite swirling economic uncertainties. Leading analysts from the nation’s top estate agencies and mortgage lenders have released forecasts suggesting average house prices could climb by between 2.5% to 4.5% over the coming twelve months, defying expectations of a market correction in the face of persistent inflation and shifting financial conditions.
The resilience of the housing market has become one of the most striking economic narratives of post-pandemic Britain. While other sectors have faltered under the weight of high interest rates and cost-of-living pressures, property values have demonstrated remarkable buoyancy. This paradox was highlighted in the latest analysis from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), which reported that buyer enquiries have increased for the third consecutive quarter, even as disposable incomes remain squeezed.
Several interlocking factors appear to be driving this unexpected trend. A chronic shortage of available properties continues to underpin prices, with government figures showing the housing deficit has now reached 1.3 million homes. Meanwhile, the gradual easing of mortgage rates from their 2023 peaks has brought some buyers back to the market, particularly in the Southeast and major regional cities where demand consistently outstrips supply.
The market’s performance varies significantly by region and property type. Prime central London has seen a notable resurgence, with international buyers returning as the pound remains relatively weak against the dollar and euro. At the other end of the spectrum, first-time buyers are increasingly turning to innovative solutions such as shared ownership and long-term fixed-rate mortgages to overcome affordability challenges.
However, economists caution that risks remain on the horizon. The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee continues to signal that interest rates may stay higher for longer than many borrowers anticipated. Meanwhile, the upcoming general election has introduced political uncertainty into the equation, with potential changes to property taxation and housing policy hanging in the balance.
Property professionals report a new pragmatism among both buyers and sellers. “What we’re seeing isn’t the frenzied bidding wars of 2021, but rather a more measured market where well-presented, realistically priced homes in desirable locations continue to attract strong interest,” noted Sarah Wilkinson, Head of Residential Sales at a major national estate agency chain.
As the summer selling season gets underway, all eyes will be on whether this unexpected resilience can be sustained. For now, the UK housing market continues to defy gravity, leaving aspiring homeowners frustrated and economists scratching their heads in equal measure.
