Sellers look set to benefit from a more robust housing market in 2006, with buyers in Scotland showing a greater willingness to offer above the 'offers over' price on properties they really want; however, it still looks as if it will be a struggle for first-time buyers to get on the property ladder.
Clydesdale Bank's latest Housebuyers report found confidence in house prices in Scotland at its highest level since the quarterly survey began in October 2001, with nearly three out of four of those surveyed expect to see rising prices in 2006 - a big increase on the 53% figure recorded a year ago. Scots are also still much more optimistic about the prospects of the housing market than those living south of the border, where just over half are forecasting rises. A further indication of an improving mood in the housing market is that seven out of ten buyers would now be willing to offer more than 10% above the 'offers over' price - a 9% increase in the last six months.
Steve Reid, Clydesdale Bank's general manager for retail banking, said: "Buyers are starting 2006 in a more positive mood than last year. The market has been showing some encouraging signs of growth in the last few months. House prices have been rising - albeit modestly - and the number of mortgage approvals is up".
