Nationwide predicts property price surge

According to a forecast by Nationwide Building Society, homeowners could see their property values increase by over £10,000 on average in 2025. The predicted growth ranges from 2% to 4%, translating to an increase of £5,363 to £10,725 for the average property currently valued at £268,144. Robert Gardner, chief economist at Nationwide, said: "Upcoming changes to stamp duty are likely to generate volatility, as buyers bring forward their purchases to avoid the additional tax." The forecast follows a significant monthly rise in house prices, with a 3.7% increase over the past year, marking the largest annual rise in two years. Gardner anticipates a strong start to 2025 as buyers rush to beat the stamp duty deadline, which will see thresholds drop from £250,000 to £125,000. 

Daily Mail (17/12/2024)   The I (17/12/2024)