Source: Sharecast
House prices fell 0.5% on the month following a 0.3% increase in February, and versus expectations for a 0.1% rise.
On the year, house prices rose 0.8% in March, down from 1.2% the month before.
The average price of a home stood at £299,677 last month, down from £301,051 in February.
Amanda Bryden, head of mortgages at Halifax, said the figures suggest the market has lost some momentum as spring begins.
"The recent slowdown in the housing market reflects the wide uncertainty regarding the conflict in the Middle East. Concerns about higher energy prices have pushed up inflation expectations, which in turn led to a rise in mortgage rates, reducing confidence that interest rates will be cut this year and dampening the initial momentum in the market seen at the start of the year," she said.
"The effect on house prices will largely depend on how long‑lasting these pressures prove to be and the wider implications for the economy and unemployment. Mortgage rates are a key factor for buyers, particularly those getting on the ladder for the first time, who are already balancing the challenge of saving a deposit, with the cost of borrowing. As a result, many are likely to watch movements in mortgage rates closely, before making a decision on any home purchase. In this environment, professional advice can play an important role in helping people understand their options and make informed decisions that are right for their individual circumstances.
"However, the recent increase in UK mortgage rates has been more modest than the sharp rises seen during the mini budget of 2022. Further, many households will already be on fixed deals, protecting them from the latest rate rises. Taking all this into account, house prices may prove resilient, even if uncertainty weighs on market activity in the near term."