Election momentum: UK house prices have returned to growth for the first time in almost a year
The British housing market will be a key battleground in the general election as figures show house prices have returned to growth for the first time in almost a year.
However, rents continue to rise sharply, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported.
The Conservatives and Labor will be questioned on their plans to support landlords and tenants ahead of the July 4 election.
UK house prices rose 1.8 per cent to an average of £283,000 in the year to March, the first annual rise since June last year.
Average private rents soared 8.9 per cent in the 12 months to April, up from 9.2 per cent in the year to March.
Renters have been hit as landlords pass on higher costs. ONS chief economist Grant Fitzner said: “After two years of unprecedented and generally accelerating annual growth, private rental increases have shown tentative signs of moderation.”
Nathan Emerson, of industry group Propertymark, said: “Housing is the foundation of a strong economy and must be a key issue that all political parties put front and center in their campaigns.”
