A leading Cumbrian estate agent has said that the housing market in Cockermouth is ‘consistently strong’ as house prices continue to rise.

Family homes that are priced around £300,000 are ‘in demand’ with both the number of houses coming to market and sales up according to H&H Land & Estates Cockermouth branch manager, Anya Caine.

Anya said that Cockermouth School’s ‘great reputation’ was helping the area’s housing market flourish.

“Our Cockermouth property service is continuing to be a great success, we are receiving excellent levels of enquires, and I am enjoying travelling all over the area to meet sellers and buyers face to face on location,” said Anya.

“All our agents are busy in a consistently strong market. The number of houses coming to the market is up, viewing numbers are up, and sales are up.

“Family homes in the £300k to £350k range are particularly in demand, with multiple offers at the asking price or more and sales completed quickly as family buyers make sure they are settled in good time for the new school year.

“Cockermouth school has a great reputation and is much sought after, which draws families looking to move into the catchment area.”

Across the Cumberland Council area, which takes in a land area from the Scottish Borders down to Millom, property prices have grown by 4.2 per cent over the last year.

The average Cumberland Council house price in April was £166,017. Land Registry figures show a 0.8 per cent increase on March.

Anya said that despite elections normally making house buyers cautious, she sees ‘no sign’ of the market slowing.

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“Good presentation still makes a difference to the value and the speed of a sale,” said Anya.

 Family buyers are generally looking for a home ready to move into, and some buyers are looking for gardens and outdoor space. But in the majority of our sales a key factor has been location within walking distance of the school.

“With a General Election coming people are usually cautious, but we see no signs of the market slowing and we are looking forward to a great summer to come.

“The strongest market for property in the Lakes is usually for second homes, but it is especially positive for us that so many of the enquiries we are dealing with are for family homes, which bodes well for Cockermouth itself.”