Summary

■ High demand for a scarce product: a slowdown in supply of new build properties has done nothing to deter applicants, which are at their highest levels since the economic downturn.

■ Demand from London: professionals and young families migrating out of expensive central London locations make up a large proportion of demand.

■ Dominant build type: apartments made up 85% of new build sales in Bishop’s Stortford in the last 3 years.

■ Family housing: the strong demand for houses is primarily amongst families who are looking to relocate nearer to the schools within Bishop’s Stortford. Professionals and pilots operating out of Stansted Airport also boost the number of applicants.

■ Outperforming the East: despite lying within the East of England region, house price movements in Hertfordshire and West Essex have risen more in line with the South East. This reflects the area’s nature as a vital segment of London’s commuter belt.