15th March 2026
House Prices – Slight Change in Consumer Sentiment – IPAV
Commenting on the latest CSO Residential Property Price Index for February published today (Wednesday), IPAV, the Institute of Professional Auctioneers & Valuers, said the slight tapering in the level of house price increases may continue over ensuing months with buyers displaying more caution.
Genevieve McGuirk, IPAV’s Chief Executive said there is a slight change in sentiment across the first quarter of the year, according to feedback from agents throughout the country.
“Today’s figures are based on stamp duty returns which have a 44-day lead-in. Affordability has been stretched following sustained increases since the post-Covid period,” she said.
“While the market would be expected to taper following such increases, regardless of demand, which clearly remains strong, it may well be that the combined effect of geopolitical concerns arising from the Iran crisis are feeding into buyers concerns about what the future may hold, particularly around potential interest rate increases.”
She said a lack of supply is evident throughout the country and this is impacting all cohorts of the market, including those who want to right size and sell their existing homes but worry they will not find the right alternative.
“While there is industry optimism around Government measures such as its infrastructure plan, on the supply side threats to costs have increased with the Iran war, and it remains to be seen how this will play out through the remainder of the year,” she said.
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