UK house prices fall unexpectedly, says Halifax

Average property price dips to 298,602 in February despite analysts expecting rush before stamp duty rises

UK house prices unexpectedly fell last month as concerns over the sluggish economy outweighed an anticipated rush of people trying to complete purchases before stamp duty increases in April.

The average property price dipped by 0.1% in February to 298,602, having hit a record high in January, according to Halifax.