A new £2m-plus home surcharge is billed as progressive, but its impact falls mainly on London and the South East, where many owners now face an annual bill from 2028. Critics warn it punishes long-term residents, cools the prime market and deepens regional divides, even as households weigh downsizing. Many fear a new cliff edge at £2m too.

There are 243 homes across the UK named “Christmas Cottage”, each adding a festive note to the property map. From a £1.37m sale in Buckinghamshire to values sitting above the national average, these homes show that even a name can carry a seasonal premium and a story of its own.

This map highlights how uneven UK house price growth has been over the last decade. While some regions have surged ahead, others have seen far more modest gains. It’s a clear reminder that national averages hide wide regional differences, and that property performance is always shaped by local markets rather than headlines.

Attleborough homeowner or landlord? Each month we track the average price paid for local properties over the last 12 months to reveal where the market is really heading. If you’re thinking of selling or simply curious about your home’s true worth, staying informed puts you ahead.