Zoopla Predicts 1.5% UK House Price Growth in 2026

Zoopla has released its house price forecast for 2026, predicting an average increase of 1.5% in UK house prices. The property portal identifies Scotland and Northern England as the regions with the strongest growth potential, driven by factors such as affordability and sustained demand.

Scottish Markets Dominate Growth Rankings

According to Zoopla’s analysis, Scottish property markets dominate the national rankings, occupying nine of the top ten positions for house price growth prospects. Motherwell leads the list, closely followed by Glasgow, Paisley, Falkirk, and Kirkcaldy. These areas benefit from faster sales, limited unsold stock, and fewer reductions in asking prices, signalling robust market activity.

Alex Rose, Zoopla’s commercial director, commented: “This data brings into sharp focus that there isn’t a one-speed national property market, with conditions varying significantly across the country.” He highlights that sellers in Scotland and the North are seeing strong demand and quicker sales compared to many southern markets.

Regional Differences Shape Market Dynamics

In contrast to the buoyant Scottish and Northern markets, southern England and London rank lower in Zoopla’s forecast due to higher property values and stretched affordability. Several London districts, particularly in west central London, experience longer selling times and greater price reductions, with homes taking more than twice the UK average time to sell.

Despite these challenges, Zoopla notes that value is gradually returning to southern markets after years of subdued growth. This suggests opportunities remain for buyers willing to negotiate, which landlords and agents should consider when advising clients or managing portfolios.

Strong Demand and Sales Speed in Northern England

Northern England also features prominently in the forecast, with Wigan ranking as the highest English market for growth prospects. Other northern locations such as Liverpool, Stoke-on-Trent, and Wolverhampton follow closely. The North West region accounts for six of the top ten English locations, reflecting the appeal of areas where house prices remain below the UK average.

For landlords and letting agents, these regional disparities underline the importance of understanding local market conditions. Alex Rose advises: “Agents who can clearly explain where their local market sits within this national picture and tailor their strategy accordingly, have a real opportunity to get ahead of the competition, win trust and instructions, and ultimately grow their business in 2026.”

Implications for Landlords and Letting Agents

The forecast highlights that the UK housing market is far from uniform. Landlords operating in Scotland and Northern England may benefit from stronger demand and quicker turnover, potentially supporting rental income stability and capital growth. Conversely, those in southern England and London may face longer void periods and pressure on rental values due to affordability constraints.

Letting agents should tailor their advice and marketing strategies to reflect these regional nuances, helping landlords make informed decisions about pricing, tenant sourcing, and portfolio management.

Looking Ahead

While the overall UK house price growth forecast is modest, regional variations present both opportunities and challenges. Scotland’s leading position in Zoopla’s 2026 forecast reinforces its attractiveness for investment, while northern English markets also show promise. Meanwhile, southern markets require careful navigation amid affordability pressures.

Suggested internal link anchors

• UK house price forecast
• Scottish property markets
• house price growth
• regional housing market trends
• letting agents strategy
• landlord rental income
• property affordability
• market demand and sales speed
• London property market
• Northern England housing
• property investment opportunities

TLA update

TLA is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in Q1 2026, featuring verified and approved service providers selected to support landlords, tenants, and property management businesses. We are inviting legal, trades, insurance, financial, mortgage, tenant screening, and other service providers to register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/