The nationwide Building society has reported that annual house price growth in the UK slowed in May to 2.4%, from 2.6% in April.
House prices fell by 0.2% over the month, after taking account of seasonal factors.
Robert Gardner, Nationwide’s chief economist, said: “Annual house price growth has been confined to a fairly narrow range of c2-3% over the past 12 months, suggesting little change in the balance between demand and supply in the market over that period. There are few signs of an imminent change. Surveyors continue to report subdued levels of new buyer enquiries, while the supply of properties on the market remains more of a trickle than a torrent.
“Looking further ahead, much will depend on how broader economic conditions evolve, especially in the labour market, but also with respect to interest rates. Subdued economic activity and ongoing pressure on household budgets is likely to continue to exert a modest drag on housing market activity and house price growth this year, though borrowing costs are likely to remain low. Overall, we continue to expect house prices to rise by around 1% over the course of 2018.”
Jonathan Samuels, CEO of Octane Capital, added: “Tight supply and subdued demand are the key contributors to the ongoing limbo gripping the UK property market.
“A lethargic economy populated by cautious and squeezed consumers has created a property market lacking both momentum and direction.
“The property market is fuelled by confidence but many consumers are running on fumes.
“Low stock levels and continued cheap borrowing rates will prevent a material decline in prices but equally a rise greater than very low single digits is highly unlikely.
“From a house price growth perspective, 2018 is looking greyer by the day.”
