What will happen to house prices in 2026?
If you’ve been wondering whether 2026 is the right year to move home, you’re not alone. With house price predictions pointing to steady growth and the Wirral market showing encouraging signs, now could be a great time to take stock and explore your options.
As we step into 2026, many people are wondering what’s next for the UK housing market and more specifically, what it means for buyers and sellers here in the Wirral. After a period of slower growth and market uncertainty, the outlook for 2026 is encouraging, especially for those considering a move.
House Price Predictions for 2026 - A Steady Rise
National property data from Rightmove shows that UK asking prices are expected to increase by around 2% over 2026. This is a positive sign of growth without the volatility of recent years. This modest rise suggests the market is stabilising rather than overheating, with improved buyer confidence and affordability supporting continued activity.
Some forecasts even suggest that regional variations could see stronger growth in more affordable areas like northern England and Scotland, while London and the South may lag slightly. For example the Wirral and the wider North West show that average house prices in the Wirral rose by around 3.4% in the year to October 2025, slightly ahead of the wider region which could continue on that trend into 2026.
What this means for local residents:
Steady growth: Wirral house prices have generally risen year-on-year and are expected to continue this trend in 2026, even if the rate of increase is modest.
Regional strength: These local gains reflect broader movement in the North West, which has often outpaced the national average in recent years.
Type matters: Detached and semi-detached homes in the Wirral typically command higher values, while terraces and flats remain more affordable — creating diverse options for buyers at different levels.
Why Now Is a Good Time to Move
Whether you’re buying your first home, upsizing, downsizing or investing, 2026 presents several favourable conditions:
📉 Improved Affordability
Mortgage rates have eased compared with the peak years of 2023-25, making monthly payments more manageable for many buyers, especially first-timers.
🏡 Strong Local Demand
A healthy level of buyer interest continues to support transactions across the area and fuel the healthy price increases of late.
📈 Choice and Competition
Rightmove’s forecast points to increased choice for buyers in 2026, with more properties expected to come to market, giving you more options when planning your move.
Altogether these factors make 2026 a compelling year to consider moving while the market combines stability with opportunity.
Why Getting a Valuation Is the Right First Step
If you’re thinking about moving in 2026, a professional property valuation should be your first step. Here’s why:
✔ Know Your Current Value
A valuation gives you an accurate picture of what your Wirral home is worth today, not last year or last decade, taking into account recent local sales and trends.
✔ Set the Right Price
For sellers, the right valuation helps you set an asking price that’s realistic for the current market, attracting interest quickly without leaving value on the table.
✔ Smart Planning for Buyers
If you’re purchasing another property, understanding your current home’s value helps with budgeting, mortgage applications, and negotiating from a position of strength.
✔ Navigate Market Nuance
The Wirral market isn’t uniform, prices vary significantly from place to place and by property type. A valuation gives you insight into how your exact home fits into those patterns.
Final Takeaway: 2026- A Year to Act with Confidence
While national property growth is expected to be steady rather than spectacular, the Wirral market has shown resilience and local price gains, and it’s well positioned to benefit from broader affordability improvements in 2026. With interest rates easing and buyer choice increasing, this could be a great year to make your move whether you’re selling, buying, or both.
Starting with a valuation gives you the clarity and confidence to make the right decisions and positions you perfectly to take advantage of what 2026 has to offer.
Get in Touch:
Bebington Branch
0151 644 6000
lesley@lesleyhooks.co.uk
Bromborough Branch
0151 334 5875
rachael@lesleyhooks.co.uk
Click HERE to book your in person valuation with one of our team.
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