Martin Ellis Prices Quotations

The annual percentage increase in house prices nationally in 2005 was the smallest for 10 years.

The rise in prices in the first three months of 2006 was...slower than the gains recorded in the two final quarters of 2005.

The weakening labor market, the continuing high level of house prices in relation to earnings and pressure on householders' finances from the recent hikes in utility and council tax bills are expected to curb demand in the coming months, therefore preventing a sustained acceleration in house price inflation.

The continuing high level of house prices in relation to earnings will curb the ability of many potential first-time buyers to enter the market.

House prices fell slightly in January for the first time since May...Despite this fall, prices have increased by 1.6% over the past three months.

The UK housing market is set for a period of broad stability, with house prices forecast to rise by 3%, broadly in line with the predicted rise in retail price inflation.

We expect this trend to continue during 2006 as house prices rise at a slower pace than earnings, therefore making it a little easier for first-time buyers to enter the market.