Atom bank comments on ONS Private Rent and House Price data

17 June 2026

Richard Harrison, Head of Mortgages at Atom bank, comments:

“The headline rate of house price inflation is more a reflection of the impact of the end of the Stamp Duty holiday a year ago, than what’s actually happening at the moment. On the ground, the housing market is feeling the domino effect of foreign policy decisions made in the White House, with the situation in Iran cooling confidence among buyers. The conflict has fed into higher costs and higher interest rates for potential purchasers, with some opting to put their plans on hold.

“That could be good news for those brave enough to take the plunge though, with Moneyfacts data suggesting average rates are now falling, and product numbers have pushed above 7,000 for the first time since March. Savvy negotiators may be able to take advantage of a slower market.

“With a peace deal apparently agreed, we may now start to see the effects of this turbulence filter out. However, it’s been yet another reminder of how global events can have a material impact on the housebuying abilities of regular people across the UK.”