“There’s more stock across every sector but good properties are still incredibly hard to find. These are apartments on a first floor or above in the best buildings, or houses on the most desirable side of the square or street in sought-after areas,” says Mandy Bissell of Black Brick, a buying agency.
She says estate agents ensure sellers get good prices by asking for “under market value” to encourage buyers. “There may be only three or four interested parties compared to eight or 12 last year but it’s enough to ensure battle commences. The end result is a sealed bid with the property selling for over market value.
