The UK housing market showed further signs of softening in early 2026, as the RICS House Price Balance declined to -12% in February 2026, down from -10% in January 2026. The February reading, updated on 12 March 2026, indicates that a greater share of surveyors reported house price declines than increases across the country.
While the shift from -10% to -12% is modest, it underscores ongoing pressure on property values amid a cautious market environment. The negative balance suggests that downward price momentum persisted through February, pointing to a housing sector still under strain as the year progresses. Investors and policymakers will be monitoring upcoming data closely for signs of either stabilisation or a deeper downturn in UK house prices.