Atom bank comments on ONS Private Rent and House Price data

16 September 2026

Chris Storey, Chief Commercial Officer, Atom bank, comments:

“This data marks a turning point in house point growth. Given the latest Lloyds house price index - which is more up to date - has reported the first annual house price fall in three years, we are likely to see further falls play out in next month’s ONS data. Against the current backdrop, the market has been driven by those who feel moving is a necessity, rather than by aspirational buyers.

“Having risen to 3.1% today, inflation is forecast to increase in the months ahead. The expectation is that the Bank of England will increase Base Rate, which will further dampen enthusiasm among buyers. We would ordinarily expect activity to pick up now following the summer holidays and as buyers attempt to complete deals before Christmas, but don’t be surprised if the market remains more subdued than usual.”