Rightmove House Price Index – December 2025: What It Means as We Head into 2026
Rightmove’s December 2025 House Price Index gives us a clear picture of a market that slowed towards the end of the year — but one that is quietly setting itself up for a stronger start to 2026.
Prices Dip Seasonally — But That’s Not the Full Story
The national average asking price in December stands at £358,138, down 1.8% month-on-month. While prices typically fall in December, this year’s drop was slightly larger than the long-term average, meaning average asking prices end 2025 0.6% lower than a year ago.
This softening wasn’t just seasonal. Much of the second half of 2025 was affected by uncertainty around the Autumn Budget, which caused some buyers and sellers to pause decisions.
A Tale of Two Halves in 2025
Rightmove data shows a clear contrast between the first and second halves of the year:
New seller listings were 9% higher than 2024 in the first half
That reversed to 4% lower in the second half
Buyer demand followed a similar pattern, ending the year quieter than expected
Despite this, sales agreed were still 3% higher than 2024 overall
In short: activity slowed, but it didn’t stop.
Early Signs of a 2026 Rebound
Rightmove is predicting a bigger-than-usual “Boxing Day Bounce”, as movers who delayed decisions return to the market after Christmas. There are already early signs of this, particularly in London’s top-end market, where new listings rose sharply immediately after the Budget clarity.
Looking ahead, Rightmove forecasts average asking prices to rise by around 2% in 2026, supported by improving affordability and buyer confidence.
Key factors helping affordability include:
Average two-year fixed mortgage rates now around 4.33%, down from 5.08% last year
Continued wage growth
Slightly lower house prices compared to a year ago
More flexible mortgage lending criteria
What This Means for Buyers and Sellers
For buyers:
Choice remains high, prices are more realistic, and borrowing conditions are improving. For many, early 2026 could present strong buying opportunities before competition fully returns.
For sellers:
The market remains price-sensitive. Well-priced, well-presented homes are still selling, while over-optimistic pricing is being ignored. As confidence rebuilds, sellers who prepare early are likely to benefit most from renewed activity.
Our View at The Avenue
As we move into 2026, the data points to a more stable and confident market than the final months of 2025 suggested. While realism remains key, momentum is quietly building — and those who plan ahead rather than react late are best placed to succeed.
Thinking about moving in 2026?
Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or already planning your next step, we’re always happy to offer honest advice and a relaxed, no-pressure conversation when the time feels right.
Data and insights sourced from the Rightmove House Price Index, December 2025.