March house prices up, says government

UK house prices were 9.7 per cent higher than in March 2009 and 0.7 per cent higher than in February 2010, according to the according to the Department of Communities and Local Government (CLG).

The mix-adjusted average house price in the UK stood at £205,598 in March 2010.

UK house prices rose by 2.8 per cent in the quarter ending March 2010. This compares with a rise of 2.9 per cent for the quarter ending December 2009.

Annual average house prices rose in England (10.1 per cent), Scotland (7.2 per cent) and Wales (8.1 per cent) but fell in Northern Ireland (-6.9 per cent).

Annual average house prices paid by first time buyers in March 2010 were 12.6 per cent higher than a year ago. Average house prices paid by former owner occupiers were 8.6 per cent higher.

Annual average house prices paid for new properties in March 2010 were 1.3 per cent higher than a year ago. Average house prices paid for pre-owned dwellings were 10.3 per cent higher.