AN EXPERIENCED Kendal estate agent and surveyor expects house values to rise by around two per cent in 2018.

Graham Iles, director at Michael CL Hodgson, of Kendal and Grange-over-Sands, says he anticipates "small growth" in line with forecasts.

"Anyone selling a property has to be realistic about price and be aware that there are a number of unpredictable changes ahead," Mr Iles told the Gazette.

Looking back on 2017, he said the year saw "a broad cross-section of people purchasing property, including first-time buyers, people upsizing and downsizing and those looking for second homes".

He explained: "Demand for properties at the upper end of the market was dampened possibly as a result of increased stamp duty costs. In terms of location, demand remains strong for properties in towns such as Kendal, sought-after Lake District villages and property with land."

Mr Iles, who has more than 35 years' experience in residential and commercial property, added: "One of the main challenges affecting the market across the UK recently has been the declining numbers of homes coming to the market, possibly due to a lack of confidence caused by Brexit and political turmoil.

"Thanks to the Autumn Budget, for genuine first-time buyers Christmas came early with the eradication of stamp duty on properties up to £300,000.

"Selling property is a seasonal business, but it is certainly less seasonal than it was." December 2017 saw Michael CL Hodgson "selling properties of all types", said Mr Iles. It was "often the most important financial transaction" of people's lives, he added.

Michael CL Hodgson is part of the H&H Group and has offices in Finkle Street, Kendal, and Main Street, Grange.