According to the report from Halifax Bank of Scotland, on a monthly basis UK house prices rose by 1.1%, versus a fall of 1.3% March. Economists had expected a 0.1% increase

House prices in the three months to April were 5.0% higher than in the same three months a year earlier

In the latest quarter (February to April) house prices were 4.2% higher than in the preceding three months (November to January).The average house price is now £236,619

In April 2009 average house prices were £154,663 - the low point following the 2008 financial crash. Since then we have seen an increase of £81,956, which reflects a 4.3% average annual increase.

Russell Galley, Managing Director, Halifax, said:

“The average UK house price now stands at £236,619 following a 1.1% monthly rise in April, as demand and supply of housing remained subdued for another month. The index has seen a weaker pace of growth over the last three years, which is consistent with the easing of transactions volumes and housing market activity reflected in RICS, Bank of England and HMRC figures”