Average asking prices for newly instructed new-build properties in Britain increased marginally over the past year, though significant regional variations reveal a complex market landscape for developers and buyers.
Analysis by Propertymark shows the average asking price for new-build properties across Britain stood at £501,658 in July 2026, representing a 0.2% increase from £500,450 in July 2025.
Regional performance
Eight regions recorded price growth, whilst three experienced declines. The West Midlands led gains with an 8.8% increase, where average new-build asking prices rose £33,838 from £384,443 to £418,281 year-on-year.
Yorkshire and Humberside recorded the smallest increase at 1.4%, with prices rising £4,848 from £342,998 to £347,846. Scotland, Wales, the East Midlands, the North East, the North West, and the South West also posted increases.
In contrast, London, the South East, and the East of England saw prices decline. The East of England experienced the steepest fall, down 3.5% or £18,713, with average asking prices dropping from £523,714 to £505,001.
The South East recorded a more modest decline of 0.6%, falling £3,300 from £552,109 to £548,809.
Market implications
The divergent regional performance reflects broader patterns in the housing market, where pricing challenges continue to affect sellers across different segments of the property market.
Nathan Emerson, chief executive at Propertymark, noted that regional disparities create challenges for aspiring homeowners. He indicated that housing-related announcements in the Budget scheduled for 28 October 2026 would be closely monitored, particularly measures supporting first-time buyers.
Emerson stated that greater devolution across England could provide regions with more control over housing policy to address local needs. The data emerges as tenant demand shows signs of recovery in other parts of the residential market.
Outlook
The marginal national increase masks substantial variation between regions, with southern areas showing weakness whilst the Midlands and northern regions demonstrate stronger price growth. The findings suggest new-build developers face differing market conditions depending on location, with implications for construction planning and pricing strategies.
