Oliver Burgess, Branch Valuer at Winkworth Dulwich Estate Agents:

“The market for family houses remains extremely buoyant, and we have a waiting list of buyers looking for three to five bedroom houses. Location and finish are important factors and very influential on price, although a shortage of these large family properties in the area has meant that any good quality stock coming onto the market has gone pretty quickly and has commanded a premium.

The market for flats has been a little slower, although there has been a big increase in buyers registering over the last two weeks.  We are seeing an increased number of first time buyers coming back to the market and putting offers forward.  Although there is still a general lack of mortgage availability for these buyers, the mortgage market continues to show signs of improvement with more lenders entering the market and existing lenders offering improved rates across. However, the high deposit level continues to affect affordability.

East Dulwich remains popular with families and young professionals, attracted by the excellent schools, bars and restaurants, local parks and good transport networks. Of the buyers registering with us, many are moving locally but also a large number from south west, north and east London – right across the capital in fact!

The start of the year has seen an increase in the number of sales appraisals and instructions.  This rise in new sellers comes at a very good time; spring is here and this is the perfect time to start to market property.  If you are considering selling your property in the first half of the year, it is key to get on the market as soon as possible, as generally competition will increase as more properties are listed as summer approaches, and this could have an effect on pricing.

There is some uncertainty with regards to interest rates but it is generally predicted that in the mid-long term it will have to rise, and again this could have a marked effect on people’s desire to buy.

The lettings market is also extremely busy.  There is particular demand for two bedroom garden flats, however there is also a shortage of one bedroom flats for young professionals and a near enough total absence of three bedroom houses for families and professional sharers. This has had a significant impact on rents, with average rents up consistently over the past two months”.

If you would like to discuss the market or how we can help you sell your property please contact Winkworth Dulwich Estate Agents on 020 8299 2722.

Superb family homes currently available in Dulwich:

Marmora Road, East Dulwich – £1,250,000

A fantastic opportunity to acquire a large family home, currently arranged as a six bedroom house with additional self contained two bedroom garden flat. Situated on a fantastic tree lined road, this magnificent house offers a huge amount of flexible living space.

Melbourne Grove, East Dulwich – £699,950

A beautiful four double bedroom Victorian terraced house situated in the centre of East Dulwich just off Lordship Lane. Superb location close to the local bars and restaurants and more importantly within the local school catchment area.