UK house prices suffer larger than average decline in December

UK house prices declined in December but are expected to climb in 2026, data published by Rightmove showed Monday.

Average new seller asking prices fell by 1.8%, or by GBP6,695, monthly in December to GBP358,138. Rightmove said the 10-year average drop for December is 1.4%.

The larger than usual fall for December means that prices are 0.6%, or GBP2,059, lower at the end of 2025 than in 2024.

Buyer demand was 3% ahead of 2024 in the first half of 2025, but 6% behind in the second half.

Rightmove expects that prices will rise by 2% in 2026.

Meanwhile, the average two-year fixed rate is now 4.33% compared to 5.08% last year.

Rightmove said a bigger than usual Boxing Day boost is expected, as "many of those who paused their plans due to budget uncertainty join the traditional start of the busier home-moving season".