Residential Market Commentary

10 August 2010

Category:

Summer 2010...

There has been a great deal of conflicting news about the direction of the UK housing market in recent weeks leaving buyers and sellers confused about the impact on prices. These reports have coincided with the summer holidays resulting in a seasonal downturn in activity across all sectors.

However, a more confident view can be taken at the upper end of the market where high quality individual property is seen as a long term sound investment.

At the same time, mass market property is unlikely to see significant growth in values in the short to medium term as a consequence of fear over rising interest rates and unemployment.

The coalition Government and the emergency budget have not dampened the spirit of the housing market in quite the same way as some were predicting. Prime property throughout the North Cotswolds continues to attract well heeled regional, national and international buyers.

Although stock levels have risen in general terms there is still a genuine shortage of fine houses against a backdrop of growing demand resulting in premiums being paid for the very best.

Pip Hill of Smiths Gore's Stow-on-the-Wold office reports a particularly busy first half to 2010 with keen buyers and sellers and strong prices achieved.

Pip Hill can be contacted on 01451 832832 or e-mail pip.hill@smithsgore.co.uk