For sale boards boost in 2012

This represents the second largest growth figure since the firm started recording in 2007.

Year on year both new “for sale” listings and properties sold rose 12.4% and 4.2% respectively.

All 12 UK regions saw significant double-digit growth in new “for sale” listings recorded in January compared to the previous month.

Regional hot spots included the South West, up +98.4%, the South East, up +94.6%, the North West, up +80.6% and Wales, up 73.1%.

While all the regions showed significant growth for new “for sale” listings only 9 regions showed month on month growth in January for properties sold.

Wales topped the table of hot spots up +28.1% while London was up +23.9%, East Midlands up +23.6% and Scotland up +19.5%.

The North East saw volumes of sold property drop -30.2% while the South East was down -27.2% and East Anglia was down -1.2%.

Stephen Watson, managing director at Agency Express, said: “Our Index figures for January reflect what our staff and estate agents are reporting - one of the best January’s since 2007.

“Whilst there are underlying factors affecting the positive performances such as the unusually mild weather and the stamp duty incentives pre-March for first-time buyers, I believe consumers are genuinely feeling more optimistic for the year ahead.

“Additionally, with interest rates remaining low and property prices also more affordable, this is a great time to consider a move.”