PropertyIndex.com is fighting back at critics who have poured scorn on the first signs of life in the property market, by predicting that the Easter bank holiday is set to be the busiest weekend this year. The leading property website has strong evidence of an upturn after recording an accelerated increase in listings viewings of 200% between the first weeks of March and April. The number of potential buyers making an enquiry about properties has also surged by 30%, showing buyers are serious about re-entering the market.

Lee Bramzell, Chief Executive of PropertyIndex.com, comments:

“There are critics out there who are still refusing to believe the black and white evidence of real signs of life in the market. There is no doubt that agents are expecting a bumper weekend over Easter as the buyers that have been waiting to see how the market fared at the start of the year and watching for further price falls are finally ready to take a look at what’s on offer. Sensible sellers will have priced their property realistically and taken steps to make sure it stands out as value for money.

“The combination of more affordable prices, lower mortgage interest rates and speculation about the bottom of the market being reached, has encouraged buyers to make the first move. Homeowners who still have at least 20% equity in their homes are seizing the opportunity to trade up to a larger property, which they couldn't previously afford. Activity is also being driven by first time buyers who have raised the funds for the required deposit, either by savings or borrowing from parents, and don’t want to miss out on buying before prices start to climb again.

“Lending is starting to pick up and products are becoming more competitive. Mortgage approvals are at healthier levels and there is now compelling evidence that market prospects are beginning to look up at last.”

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