UK house prices flat in July - Lloyds

(Sharecast News) - UK house prices were flat in July, according to figures released by Lloyds on Friday. House prices were unchanged on the month, having nudged up 0.2% in June. On the year, prices were just 0.1% firmer in July following 0.7% growth the month before.

The average price of a home stood at £299,253, versus £299,396 in June.

Amanda Bryden, Head of Mortgages at Lloyds, said: "Affordability remains a challenge for many would -be buyers and, following recent events in the Middle East, mortgage rates have edged higher again after easing earlier in the summer.

"Sensitivity to borrowing costs is reflected in the latest industry data, which show a modest increase in both mortgage approvals and completed transactions in June following a bigger dip in May. While housing demand remains broadly steady, activity continues to respond quickly to changes in mortgage rates.

"Looking ahead, we expect market activity and house prices to remain relatively stable over the remainder of the year. Developments will be shaped by both how mortgage rates respond to the outlook for inflation and wider household confidence."