🏡 October 2024 - House Price Index: "Strong activity but muted Autumn price bounce as buyer choice"

In this blog post, we're going to break down the top need-to-know information gleaned from the latest data provided by Rightmove. 📊 From trends and fluctuations to insights that could potentially impact your property journey, we've got you covered.

Here are the top 10 key facts for homeowners from the article:

1. Modest Price Increase: Average asking prices rose by only 0.3% (£1,199) this month, reaching £371,958. This is lower than the typical 1.3% increase for October, as rising competition gives buyers more options.

2. Strong Sales Rebound: The number of sales agreed has surged by 29% year-on-year, showing market resilience compared to last year’s quieter activity.

3. Rising Buyer Demand: Buyer inquiries to agents are up 17% from last year, reflecting strong underlying interest, despite Budget-related uncertainties.

4. More Homes on the Market: Available homes for sale are 12% higher than a year ago, with the average number per estate agent branch at the highest since 2014, creating a buyer’s market.

5. Slight Increase in Mortgage Rates: The average 5-year fixed mortgage rate is now 4.61%, marking the first weekly increase since May, though still well below July’s peak.

6. Higher Energy Costs: Average annual energy bills for homes with an EPC rating of D have risen by 10% since September, now costing around £2,465.

7. Buyer Competition at the High End: Properties with four bedrooms or more have increased in availability by 17%, intensifying buyer competition in this segment.

8. Positive 2025 Outlook: Two predicted Bank Rate cuts and wage growth could improve affordability next year, despite ongoing affordability pressures.

9. Muted Price Growth: Increased choice has slowed price growth, with some sellers pricing competitively to attract affordability-conscious buyers.

10. Budget Waiting Game: While market activity is high, some buyers may pause until the Autumn Budget clarifies fiscal policy and potential mortgage rate changes.

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