"The consumer economy in the UK has arguably been through one of its worst ever downturns, with real average earnings contracting for the first time in over 30 years. However, there are signs that the outlook for consumer spending might be improving."

"The slow start to the year has continued into Q2, with just seven shopping centre deals being transacted.  We expect the second half of this year to be quiet, as there are few willing vendors, and the number of potential buyers has also diminished from last year."

"Dublin's prime retail streets maintain high occupancy rates. However there are a number of units trading on short-term leases and as a result there is more space available than 12 months ago."

"Global economic uncertainty means overseas buyers remain committed to central locations. London's prime residential values rose by an average of 0.9% in the second quarter of 2012, and annual price growth slowed to 6.0%, as some of the heat came out of the market in the early summer."

"The gap in values between the regional markets and London continues to widen. During the past three months, the prime regional markets saw small price falls of -0.9% as more stock came to the market and buyer sentiment remained weak."

"Prime locations react differently to key market drivers."

"A lack of London buyers has been an ongoing issue for most regions."

"St George's Hill and The Wentworth Estate see high levels of growth."