WITH average house prices rising in nine out of 10 property types researched, the housing market in North Yorkshire performed strongly over the last quarter and throughout the year, according to Northern Rock's Houseprice survey.

In the three months to January, 1998, the less-expensive end of the market in the county performed best, against the trend of figures covering the whole of 1997.

All types of two and three-bedroom houses in North Yorkshire increased by more than £1,000 in the quarter. Four-bedroom homes rose slightly, while there was a slight decline in the average price of two-bedroom flats, which should encourage first-time buyers.

Scarborough valuers confirmed the trend, pointing out that prices continued to rise gradually with a shortage of good property coming on to the market.

The survey, published by Northern Rock's research department, was compiled by a panel of more than 200 estate agents and valuers throughout the north east and Cumbria.

The strong performance of the North Yorkshire housing market is viewed against the context of a strong and positive market in the whole of the northern region for 1998.

In the three months to January - traditionally a quiet quarter - house prices in the north east and Cumbria rose by 1.45 per cent, about one per cent higher than normal. Average price for a property across the region is now £56,050.

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