House Price Growth Surpasses National Average in Select Areas

Recent analysis by eXp estate agents shows that while the average UK house price has increased by 1.7% annually, some locations have outperformed this considerably. Notably, North East Derbyshire leads with a 10.5% rise in average house prices over the last year, followed closely by Melton at 10.4% and Oldham at 10.3%. Other areas such as East Cambridgeshire and Argyll and Bute have also seen price increases exceeding 9%, with Hartlepool rounding out the top ten at 9.0% growth.

Unexpected Hotspots Defy Traditional Market Expectations

Adam Day, head of eXp UK and Europe, emphasises that these strong performers are not the typical “hotspots” commonly associated with rapid house price appreciation. He notes that despite the broader market uncertainty, particularly surrounding the Autumn Budget, these pockets of growth demonstrate the diverse nature of the UK housing market.

“While the national picture shows a steady but relatively modest rate of appreciation, it’s clear that there are still pockets of the market delivering incredibly strong growth,” Day explains. “Many of the top performers are not the usual ‘hotspots’ we associate with rapid price rises and this underlines the ever-evolving diversity of the UK housing market.”

Implications for Landlords and Agents

For landlords and letting agents, recognising these emerging hotspots is essential. Areas like North East Derbyshire and Melton may offer attractive opportunities for investment due to their strong price growth, which can translate into increased rental yields and capital appreciation over time. Understanding local market dynamics is vital, as relying solely on national averages can obscure significant regional variations.

Local factors such as employment opportunities, infrastructure developments, and demographic changes often underpin these growth patterns. Landlords should therefore consider these fundamentals when assessing potential investments, as they can influence tenant demand and long-term property values.

Market Resilience Amid Uncertainty

The resilience of the housing market, despite economic uncertainties and policy changes, suggests that well-informed landlords can still identify profitable opportunities. The Autumn Budget’s impact on the property sector has been a source of concern, but the data indicates that certain markets continue to thrive. This reinforces the importance of staying informed about regional trends and adapting investment strategies accordingly.

Looking Ahead: Support for Landlords

In line with supporting landlords through these dynamic market conditions, The Landlord Association (TLA) is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in Q1 2026. This initiative will feature verified and approved service providers, including legal, trades, insurance, financial, mortgage, and tenant screening services, designed to assist landlords, tenants, and property management businesses. Service providers interested in joining can register their interest at the Landlord Association website.