Most areas of the UK saw a slowdown in house price inflation in February, according to the Halifax.

Bucking the trend most notably was Scotland, which saw annual growth increase to +3.8% compared to +2.5% in January, with an average house price of £213,014.

Northern Ireland continues to have the strongest annual property annual price growth in the UK, largely unchanged at +5.9% in February. Properties in Northern Ireland now cost an average of £205,784.

House prices in Wales were up +2.8% compared to the previous year, with properties valued at an average of £226,811.

In England, Yorkshire and Humberside recorded the strongest annual property price growth for the first time since July 2021, up +4.1% compared to the previous year, with properties now costing an average £216,130.

London saw annual house price growth ease considerably from +2.6% in January to +1.6% in February. The capital still has by far the most expensive average property price in the UK, at £545,183.

Speaking about the all-UK ouse price data produced by the Halifax, spokesperson Amanda Bryden says: “The typical UK house price remained stable in February, with a slight monthly dip of -0.1%. Annual growth also held steady at +2.9%, with the average house price edging down by just £213 to £298,602. 

“February’s figures highlight the delicate balance within the UK housing market. While there’s been talk of a last minute rush on new mortgages ahead of the changes to stamp duty, inevitably we’ve seen some of the demand that was brought forward start to fade as the April deadline ticks closer, given the time needed to complete a purchase.

“That may help to explain why growth in first-time buyer property prices eased in February, falling to +2.4%, in contrast to homemover price inflation which accelerated, reaching +3.7%

“While house price growth has slowed overall, market activity remains strong and comparable to pre-pandemic levels, demonstrating a resilience amongst buyers that’s been evident in the face of higher borrowing costs.

“While those affordability challenges persist, the ongoing shortage of housing supply coupled with sustained demand suggests property prices will continue to rise this year, albeit at a more measured pace compared to last year.”