Editor's note: This brief was summarised by The Property AI Newsroom from a report by The Negotiator. Read the original article for full details.
Land Registry Reports Slower House Price Growth in May
UK house price growth slowed in May, according to the latest Land Registry House Price Index. The data shows average property values rose by 0.3% in May, compared to a 0.5% increase in April. Annual price growth also slowed to 2.7% in May, down from 3.9% the previous month. The average price of a house in Britain was recorded at £270,080.
On a regional basis, the figures reveal notable differences. In England, average house prices rose by 2.3% annually, while Wales saw a 4.2% increase and Scotland a 4.4% rise. Northern Ireland was identified as the fastest growing housing market, with prices up 7.4% annually in the first quarter of 2026. Within England, the North East experienced the highest annual house price inflation at 5.9% in the 12 months to May 2026. In contrast, London saw prices fall by 3.7% annually, making it the English region with the lowest annual inflation.
The Negotiator’s report highlights that the slowdown in growth occurred before the traditional summer lull. The data may also be influenced by the aftermath of last year’s Stamp Duty rush.
For letting agents and inventory clerks, these trends indicate a more balanced market, with regional variations in price growth and a shift in buyer and seller expectations. The figures suggest that increased stock and more realistic pricing are contributing to smoother transactions and a more competitive environment.
Source: The Negotiator