What’s Really Happening to House Prices Right Now?
There is a lot of talk about the housing market and interest rates right now, but what is really happening? Read more to find out.
The latest Rightmove House Price Index, released on 21st September 2026, has revealed some encouraging signs for the property market... but what do the figures actually mean for buyers and sellers this autumn?
The average asking price of a newly listed property rose by 0.7% in September, equivalent to an increase of £2,441 and taking the national average to £367,440.
This is the first monthly rise since May and is slightly stronger than the usual September increase of 0.5%. So, could the traditional autumn bounce now be getting underway?
After a quieter summer, buyers and sellers are returning from their holidays and refocusing on their moving plans, bringing a welcome lift in activity. However, this remains a competitive and price-sensitive market, meaning the right pricing, presentation and marketing strategy are still essential.
📈 What’s happening to asking prices?
Although asking prices increased during September, the national average remains 0.8% lower than this time last year.
It is important to put this into context. Property prices experienced several monthly falls following a particularly subdued summer, affected by seasonal distractions including the holidays, periods of very hot weather and the World Cup.
September’s rise does not necessarily signal a dramatic change in the market, but it does suggest that confidence and activity may be beginning to improve as we enter a traditionally busier period.
Rightmove property expert Colleen Babcock described the increase as a “welcome sign of confidence after a particularly subdued summer.”
📍 The North West continues to perform well
The regional picture is particularly encouraging for homeowners here in the North West:
📈 Average asking prices increased by 0.5% this month
🏡 Prices are 1.7% higher than this time last year
💷 The regional average asking price now stands at £274,774
⏱️ Homes take an average of 57 days to find a buyer, compared with 64 days nationally
✅ Around 71% of homes coming to market find a buyer, comfortably ahead of the national average of 61%
While national headlines can sometimes make the property market sound the same everywhere, local conditions can vary considerably.
The North West continues to benefit from comparatively good affordability, with homes finding buyers more quickly and successfully than in many other parts of the country.
🔑 Buyers are returning to the market
Rightmove’s real-time data has recorded the expected seasonal rise in home-moving activity between August and September as the holiday season comes to an end.
There is still a strong underlying desire to move, but buyers currently have plenty of choice. The number of properties available to purchase is at a 12-year high for this time of year, while buyer enquiries are 9% lower than they were a year ago.
This doesn’t mean homes aren’t selling, they absolutely are, but buyers are taking their time, comparing properties carefully and responding most strongly to homes that feel well priced from the outset.
For sellers, standing out from the competition is key.
🎯 Getting the price right matters
Rightmove’s research found that 74% of homes sold so far this year were priced correctly from the beginning and did not require a later reduction.
That doesn’t mean sellers need to undersell their homes. It means launching at a sensible, evidence-based figure that attracts the strongest possible interest while the property is still fresh to the market.
As property expert Marc von Grundherr explains: “Price is only part of the equation. Presentation matters, flexibility around viewings matters.”
A well-presented home, supported by excellent photography, effective online marketing and an agent who proactively follows up every enquiry, can still stand out and achieve a strong result.
💷 What about mortgage rates?
The average two-year fixed mortgage rate has increased from 5.09% to 5.29%, so affordability remains an important consideration for buyers.
However, there continues to be a wide range of mortgage products available across different deposit levels. Buyers have also become more accustomed to today’s interest-rate environment and are increasingly making decisions based on their own circumstances rather than waiting indefinitely for the “perfect” moment.
Speaking with an independent mortgage adviser early can help buyers understand their budget and approach their property search with greater confidence.
🏡 Is now a good time to sell?
For anyone considering a move, the message isn’t to wait for a perfect market — it’s to enter the market with the right strategy. The autumn market traditionally brings renewed activity, and the latest Rightmove figures suggest that this seasonal uplift may already be beginning.
Here in the North West, asking prices remain higher than they were a year ago, homes are finding buyers faster than the national average and our selling success rate is among the strongest in England.
Success this autumn will come down to:
✅ Setting the right asking price from day one
📸 Presenting your home at its very best
🔑 Being flexible wherever possible with viewings
💬 Listening and responding to buyer feedback
📣 Choosing an agent with a proactive marketing and follow-up strategy
If you’re thinking about moving, now is a good time to find out where your property sits in the current local market.
Our friendly and experienced team can provide honest, tailored advice and help you put the strongest possible plan in place.
Thinking of selling? Contact Lesley Hooks Estate Agents to arrange your free, no obligation valuation.
Get in Touch:
Bebington Branch
0151 644 6000
lesley@lesleyhooks.co.uk
Bromborough Branch
0151 334 5875
rachael@lesleyhooks.co.uk
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Figures sourced from the Rightmove House Price Index, published 21st September 2026.