According to Halifax, UK house prices increased by 1.3% in November compared to October, marking the fastest monthly growth of the year. This brings the average property value to a record £298,083. With a 4.8% annual increase, demand is driven by improving mortgage conditions and lower interest rates. However, affordability challenges remain for many buyers, and the market may cool after upcoming stamp duty changes at the end of March, as noted by experts from Halifax and Garrington Property Finders.