Spring brought the quietest listing season we have seen in the valley for years. Buyers took their time, and most visited a home three or four times before making an offer.

Where the interest is

Homes close to the river path and the village centre drew the most attention. Houses with a south-facing garden went fastest, usually within a few weeks of listing.

People are no longer asking how large a house is. They are asking how it feels at seven in the morning.

What sellers can do

Good photographs in daylight, an honest floor plan and a clear list of recent works help more than a lower price. Buyers read the documents carefully before they ever call.