UK housing market confidence booms
2nd Feb 2012
There has been a boom in the number of people expressing confidence in the UK's property industry and its future prospects, a new poll reveals.
A survey carried out by Agency Express shows that all 12 major UK regions saw significant double-digit growth in new 'for sale' listings recorded in January, compared to the previous month.
The regional hot spots included the south-west, which rose by 98.4 per cent, the south-east, which was up 94.6 per cent, and the north-west, which increased by 80.6 per cent.
Furthermore, the statistics showed that nine regions showed month-on-month growth in January for 'sold' properties, with Wales topping the table of hot spots after a 28.1 per cent rise, London up 23.9 per cent and East Midlands up 23.6 per cent.
Commenting on the results, Stephen Watson, managing director of Agency Express, said the figures highlight that it was arguably the best January since 2007.
"Whilst there are underlying factors affecting the positive performances such as the unusually mild weather and the stamp duty incentives pre-March for first time buyers, I believe consumers are genuinely feeling more optimistic for the year ahead," he commented.
Mr Watson added that, as interest rates remain low and property prices are also more affordable, now is a "great time" to consider a move.
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