THE ROYAL Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) is claiming that it's still a sellers' market for houses in Wales with prices showing a strong increase throughout April.

Only the northern regions of England achieved a better performance.

According to the most recent RICS survey, while the rate at which prices increase slowed slightly, fifty-five per cent of surveyors in Wales reported an increase in house prices.

Kelvin Francis, RICS Wales residential spokesman, said: "Despite the ongoing debate about the possibility of a housing crash, prices in Wales continue to rise and surveyor confidence about the future of Welsh prices is strong."

The number of new buyer enquiries rose strongly throughout April and agreed sales showed further increases.

In addition, the number of new instructions to the market rose meaning that the ratio of houses per surveyor rose by seventeen to fifty-nine.

"The rise in interest rates does not seem to have discouraged people from either looking to buy or putting their property on the market.

"It is likely that there will be an upward pressure on prices over the coming months."

Nicholas Hill of Newland Rennie Wilkins, Chepstow, said: "A shortage of quality instructions, especially in the first time buyers' category, has resulted in inflated prices being achieved on available properties.

"Individual, rural properties are selling very well. However, some overpriced properties are still not moving."

Beverley Morgan of Beverley Morgan & Co, Cwmbran, said: "The level of inquiries has increased and high prices are being obtained, particularly at the lower end of the market.

"There are still a large number of investors purchasing properties with a view to let."