At Hunters West Hampstead, we care about local house prices, and we do what we can to stay in touch with the national market. As a company, we are located in all parts of the nation, and this means we are well-placed to observe what is happening.
We aim to bring you insight and guidance into what is happening nationally, and more importantly, on your doorstep.
How is the West Hampstead housing market faring?
According to Rightmove, as of the end of August 2021, West Hampstead house prices are as follows:
“Properties in West Hampstead had an overall average price of £828,783 over the last year.
The majority of sales in West Hampstead during the last year were flats, selling for an average price of £697,019. Terraced properties sold for an average of £1,530,923, with semi-detached properties fetching £2,302,222.
Overall, sold prices in West Hampstead over the last year were 2% up on the previous year and 1% up on the 2018 peak of £817,844.”
As you will see, property prices in West Hampstead are growing at a much slower rate than the national average. However, when you consider the higher cost of prices in the local area, this shouldn’t be a shock.
How is the national housing market faring?
According to the latest UK House Price Index figures from the ONS:
- Average property prices rose by 13.2% over the year to June 2021
- This is the highest annual growth rate recorded since November of 2003
- Average property prices in June were up 9.8% from May 2021
- The average house price in the UK reached £266,000 in June 2021, which is a record high
- The June 2021 average house price in the UK is £31,000 higher than the June 2020 figure
What is said by industry experts?
Sam Mitchell is the CEO of an online property market company and he said; “House prices continued on their upwards trajectory in June, with the latest ONS figures capturing the final frenzy amongst buyers and sellers before the stamp duty holiday scaled back. Despite the tax break now only being available to properties under £250,000, there are still other factors at play that will likely contribute to further house price increases in the months ahead. Historically low interest rates, an uplift in 95% mortgages and savings accumulated during lockdowns are all going to allow more people to enter the market.”
Sam Mitchell concluded by saying; “Let’s also not forget that the UK is still faced with a major supply and demand imbalance issue. A lack of new stock that fails to meet the demand we see today is enough on its own to push prices up. Particularly when we all appear to be looking for the same thing – a desire for more space, bigger gardens, and that now essential home office.”
Marc von Grundherr, is a well-respected analyst in the UK housing market, and he said; “Another behemoth level of house price growth both on a monthly and annual basis, no doubt influenced by the first of the staggered extensions to the stamp duty holiday as homebuyers purchasing above the £250,000 threshold continued to scramble to secure a saving before the clock expired.”
Marc von Grundherr concluded by saying; “The London market has seen a lesser degree of property market manipulation as a result of the stamp duty holiday. As a result, the capital continues to trail where property price appreciation is concerned but we’re seeing a far more stable market start to emerge and one that is showing greater long-term momentum as both domestic and foreign interest start to return. Sales are increasing, sellers are achieving a greater level of asking price than they were just a few months ago, and all of these indicators suggest a property market resurgence is stirring.”
James Forrester, another noted name in the UK property market said; “The UK property market continues to flourish driven, in part, by the stamp duty holiday but also the ongoing trend for larger homes, with detached properties seeing a huge 15.6% annual increase. We now know that the initial stamp duty deadline at the end of June has failed to dampen this appetite and the market cliff edge that many predicted is now starting to look very unlikely. With buyer demand remaining extremely robust and stock shortages plaguing much of the market, it’s safe to say house prices will continue to climb throughout the remainder of the year.”
At Hunters, we are more than happy to talk you through any local property issue, and make sure you are prepared for moving and selling. The property market is moving quickly these days, and we are keen to help you make informed decisions.
If you need any help or guidance regarding property matters, please get in touch. As your local housing market specialists, we will do what we can to ensure you make your next house move in style. Contact Hunters West Hampstead today for all your housing and letting needs.
