UK Housing Market Remains Steady in March Despite Global Uncertainty

The latest House Price Index from Rightmove shows that the property market has started the spring season on a steady footing, despite growing global uncertainty.

While headlines around the Iran conflict may be causing concern, the reality is that both buyers and sellers are, for now, continuing with their plans.

A Typical Spring Uplift, But Nothing Dramatic

March has delivered what we would normally expect at this time of year: a modest increase in house prices. The average asking price has risen by 0.8% to £371,042, following a flat February.

However, this isn’t a market that’s racing ahead. Price growth is being kept in check by the sheer number of homes currently for sale, the highest we’ve seen at this point in the year for over a decade.

As a result, buyers have more choice, and sellers are having to be more measured and realistic when setting their asking prices.

Confidence Is Holding...For Now

What’s particularly encouraging is that activity hasn’t dropped off.

Sales agreed are only slightly behind last year’s unusually strong market and remain ahead of 2024 levels. At the same time, new properties are continuing to come to market at a healthy rate.

In short, people are still moving.

Unlike previous periods of uncertainty, we haven’t seen any sudden pause or sharp reaction — suggesting that confidence, while cautious, is still very much intact.

A Market Where Strategy Matters

With more homes available, buyers are in a stronger position. They have time to consider their options, negotiate, and be selective.

For sellers, this means the approach needs to be right from day one. Pricing competitively and presenting a property well is no longer optional, it’s essential. Homes that are pitched correctly are still attracting good interest, while those that aren’t risk being left behind.

What This Means Across Our Region

Across Shropshire, Worcestershire and Herefordshire, we’re seeing these same patterns play out locally.

There’s a good level of activity, but also noticeably more choice for buyers. That’s creating a more balanced market, one where neither side has complete control, and outcomes are being driven by how well each move is handled.

Comment from Hannah Brown, Sales Director at Nock Deighton

“These national trends are very much reflected across Shropshire, Worcestershire and Herefordshire. There’s good levels of activity, but also far more choice for buyers, which is keeping price growth steady.

For sellers, pricing correctly from the start is crucial in a competitive market. For buyers, there’s more opportunity to negotiate and secure the right property.

Despite wider global uncertainty, confidence locally remains steady and we expect the spring market to continue building momentum.”

The spring market has begun in a stable and measured way. It’s not booming, but it’s certainly not slowing down either.

For buyers, this could be a window of opportunity.
For sellers, success will come down to preparation, pricing and positioning.

If you’re thinking about moving this year, now is a great time to start the conversation.