Registrations Increase

The National Association of Estate Agents reports that demand for UK property increased for a second consecutive month in September, reaching levels not seen in over four years.

The National Association of Estate Agents housing report for September showed an increase in the number of people registering to look for homes.

The figure rose from 304 in August to 308 in September as an average per branch – the highest level since September 2007.

The number of houses available for sale also increased across August and September while the number of sales remained the same.

Other figures showed the percentage of sales to First Time Buyers (FTB) increased, moving from 20 per cent in August to 22 per cent in September, however regional variations still remain.

Wendy Evans-Scott, President of the NAEA said: “It is encouraging to see that the number of enquiries is increasing, but sellers need to be very realistic when pricing their property in order to secure a sale in what is still a very cautious market.

The number of First Time Buyers on the market has increased slightly over the course of the month, however agents are reporting widespread regional variation. Lending still remains a real barrier to homeownership for this part of the market.”