"A prime property, we explained, is a first-rate residence exhibiting excellence in location, position, amenities, finish and fixtures and fittings."

"The market, then as now, was reliant on the economy, and just beginning to witness the first signs of a meaningful recovery."

"We wondered if the market was ‘taking a breather’ before moving ahead, or if we were in a period of slow, steady and sustained growth."

"Europe was on the agenda at the turn of the century. It was seen as a flat, low-lying country when it came to inflation and interest rates."

"‘Cool Britannia’ heralded London’s renaissance as a world city as the young wealthy drove prices to new heights."

"Flats were not the panacea to housing supply problems, and we looked cautiously to a gradual growth in first time buyers."

"During 2007 the development market across the central belt of Scotland saw strong growth, but the credit crunch was looming."

"The coalition government made an unprecedented effort to boost both economic growth and the building of new homes."

"We asked whether the Government’s Help to Buy scheme had revived the market and created the risk of a house price bubble."

"Victoria Mitchell founded the Residential Research department in 1989. Here she looks back at the early days to share her original vision with us."