30/03/2011 - 'Surge in activity' in UK property market

Published by Tim Hill.
http://www.taylorvinters.com/news/surge-activity-uk-property-market/3777

There was a surge in property market activity in the first quarter of 2011, according to a new report.
Registrations rose by 90 per cent between December and January, showing an increase in buyer demand, the Market Analysis report by Winkworth revealed.
The rise in demand has created a sort of sub-market within London, where quality properties are still going for above the asking prices in some instances.
Even in other parts of the UK, the property market is becoming stronger, with sales starting to recover, the report said.
Dominic Agace, chief executive officer of the estate agency, said: "The family house market continues to drive activity."
As ever, there is movement out of London as couples with growing families look for more space and open countryside, so long as the capital remains within easy commuting reach for work."
However, he added first-time buyers are continuing to face difficulties getting on the property ladder, with high deposits still being demanded from them.
When the Budget was announced on March 23rd, chancellor George Osborne said more would be done to assist first-time buyers in the UK, through the introduction of an assisted deposit initiative for new homes.