Press Release March 2009

Paul Beresford, Chairman/Managing Director of Beresfords

We are delighted to announce that in March 2009 we witnessed the highest level of new business for 18 months. What’s more levels of new business have been progressing steadily since the beginning of this year. Last month saw an increase of 69% compared to January 2009 and 28% against February 2009.

The number of people out viewing last month was up 62% on the first month of the year, with the number of applicants registering across our network of offices also up significantly.

Very promising is the number of first time buyers actively looking to make that first step onto the property ladder. Since the beginning of the year the number of first time buyers registering with us has increased by 20% month on month.

These stats are very positive and highlight a much needed increase in consumer confidence. Ultimately seasoned buyers and first time buyers are starting to take advantage of the more affordable house prices and lower mortgage rates. Our network of offices have also been reporting properties coming onto the market and selling very quickly.

With First Time Buyers recognised as a vital part of the housing market's proper functioning, the fact that their activity level remains strong is very positive news and will help a lot of other people who are in a chain looking to move. If more first time buyers are looking to buy other people will move in all price ranges as a result.