Market could recover in 2009

The National Association of Estate Agents (Naea) has issued a rallying call to all involved in the housing market to make 2009 a "prosperous" year.

After releasing figures which showed the average detached house now costs just £287,922 and the average semi-detached costs £192,042, Naea predicted that the New Year could rejuvenate the market.

President Chris Brown explained that the festive period was always a slow time but that many will look to get on the property ladder in the coming year.

"The market is still waiting to feel the impact of recent interest rate cuts, and if the major lenders commit to making mortgages available to those who want to buy then the market should improve next year," he said.

"For tens of thousands of people, their New Years resolution as 2008 draws to a close will be to get onto the property ladder, or to move further up it. We must all do what we can to help them achieve that goal.

"The demand for property is there – so in 2009 we need political will, professional integrity and financial commitments."

Property owners looking to sell or simply looking for more space may consider adding a conservatory or glazed extension.

The extra space can make the home a nicer place to live and can be a major bargaining chip when it comes to selling the property.