Demand for family homes 'on the rise'
28th May 2012
There has been a rise in demand for family homes in the UK, according to the latest report from Knight Frank.
Data published in the organisation's 2012 Housebuilding Report shows that 87 per cent of house builders have reported moderate or high demand in the sales market for four- and five-bedroom houses, which is up from the 77 per cent recorded in 2011.
The report indicates that housebuilders and developers expect to see a modest increase in activity in the sector this year, with 55 per cent of builders predicting the volume of starts will rise in 2012, and more than half saying their site acquisition activity will increase.
Grainne Gilmore, head of Knight Frank UK residential research, said that although the industry faces challenges in the current climate, there are many signs of optimism.
"The green shoots can clearly be seen in our survey. We expect development volumes to rise modestly over the coming year, especially in the delivery of larger, family homes," she added.
Ms Gilmore added that policymakers may have to do more to address some of the current barriers to development if they are to meet their own housing targets in the short or medium term.
Posted by Staff Writer: Frances McDonald
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