HSBC offers first sub-4% five-year fixed rate as the major lenders fight to attract house buyers entering the market.

Grenville Turner, the former CEO of Countrywide, resigned on 31 December, after four years with the hybrid agency.

Leaders Romans Group’s Kim Lidbury says that there is a strong likelihood that the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard or something similar will reappear.

Glentree boss Trevor Abrahmsohn says that with the 6th March Budget looming the Chancellor should be looking to ease the burden of Inheritance Tax.

Analysis by Yopa shows that more than 2,000 vendors decide to relist their home, and many at a discounted price.

Demand also soars with the number of buyers contacting estate agents jumping by 273% between the Christmas Day lull and Boxing Day.

Home Sale Pack's Ruth Beeton says fall throughs cost buyers and sellers £270 million in Q3 - the second consecutive quarterly increase.

Economists are bodly forecasting two reductions in interest rates this year coupled with a jump in house prices.