THERE has been a 23 per cent increase in home sales in January 2012 compared to January 2011, according to Connells.

The award-winning national agency, which has 12 offices across Devon and Somerset, has seen a surge of buyers entering the market in 2012, a trend which it believes will continue as the year progresses.

John Waldron, area director for Connells, said: "We've seen a significant increase in sales over January fuelled by a greater interest in the property market coming into 2012.

"The number of people viewing properties through our branches in January is up by around 7 per cent compared to last year so with sales figures being ahead of the viewings we can deduce that buyers in 2012 are in a much more decisive frame of mind and prepared to make buying decisions."

Following January's surge in activity, Connells is looking forward to the expected spring rush of house hunters to the market. According to its figures, Connells January Sale campaign helped generate interest among buyers but, interestingly, not all sales were of "Sale" properties.

"Many of the sales achieved in January were for properties that came on to the market in the same month and were snapped up very quickly," John said. "Currently Connells in the Westcountry is selling around 75 per cent of everything available.

"The biggest misconception from buyers currently is that they will not be able to move, but our figures are proving completely the opposite, so I would urge anyone who is thinking of buying to get in touch.

"Similarly, a market where we are selling the majority of homes that come on to the market is usually associated with – dare I say – 'boom' conditions.

"Certainly, if you are thinking of selling at the moment then the current shortage may indicate that it's the right time to make a move."