York Property Market Update – February 2026

There’s been a lot of property chatter flying around this month, so I wanted to take a moment to cut through the noise and share what’s actually happening, and more importantly, what it means for us here in York.

What’s happening here in York?

The latest data shows the average UK asking price is now £368,019, virtually unchanged from January (down just £12).  Now let’s bring this closer to home.

The average house price in York is now £343,978, which represents a 1.1% increase year-on-year. That’s steady, sustainable growth, not dramatic spikes, but positive movement. However, the average time to find a buyer in York is now 86 days, which is 9 days longer than this time last year. That increase tells us something important. Buyers are active, but they are careful. And they have choice!

Which means… Pricing right from day one is absolutely key.

Homes that are launched at the right price are still moving well. Homes that “test the market” are sitting.

In today’s York market, momentum in the first few weeks is everything. Once a property goes stale, it becomes harder work to regain attention.

So… is 2026 a good year to buy?

Honestly, yes, it really is shaping up that way. If you’re thinking about making a move, the market feels much more balanced and manageable than it has in the past few years. Prices nationally are sitting roughly where they were this time last year, which is good news if you’ve been patiently saving your deposit and waiting for a bit of stability. At the same time, wages have risen by 4.7% year-on-year, which is helping affordability gently improve rather than stretch further. There’s also far more choice available. In fact, the number of homes for sale is at an 11-year high for this time of year, which means you don’t need to rush, you can take your time, and you’re in a stronger position to negotiate. I’m definitely seeing that confidence and breathing space reflected here in York. And with the average two-year fixed mortgage rate now at 4.28%, down from 4.96% a year ago, monthly payments are looking that bit more predictable again.

All in all, it’s starting to feel like a market where sensible, well-planned moves can really pay off.

The market at a glance (UK)

• First-time buyers: £226,050 (up 0.2% month-on-month)
• Second-steppers: £343,603 (up 0.7%)
• Top of the ladder: £657,604 (down 0.2%)

We’re seeing the top end soften slightly, while mid-market homes remain resilient.

My honest take on York right now

This isn’t a boom market. It isn’t a crash market. It’s a considered market.

For buyers: You have more negotiating power than you’ve had in years.

For sellers: You can absolutely achieve strong prices, but quality marketing and accurate pricing are non-negotiable if you want to avoid becoming part of that 86-day average.

If you’re thinking about moving in 2026, this is a market where careful planning really pays off.