Welsh law firm Howells Solicitors, which has a base in Newport, has recruited more conveyancing experts and support staff to its property team as it reports continued activity in the housing market.

Experienced chartered legal executive Sharon Thomas and solicitor Elise Stark have joined Howells Solicitors’ growing ranks as house sale completions continue to rise.

The firm has also offered four training contracts to existing staff members who will be assisting in the conveyancing teams and Howells has also built strong relationships with the University of South Wales and recruited five graduates who recently completed the university’s legal practice course.

After a couple of years of stagnation, the South Wales market is starting to move.

Mark Hobbs, managing partner of the law firm said: “At the beginning of 2013 the housing market remained a little fragile but there can be little doubt that by the end of the year it turned out to be a lot better than many in our sector expected.

“It’s already been a brisk start to the year and the signs are all positive that this will continue in 2014. The Welsh property market won’t grow as quickly as it has in the London and the South East but it is moving again which is good news.

“Should the recent launch of the Help To Buy scheme in Wales have the same impact as the similar scheme across the border, it will have a positive effect on the market. It is still early days but listening to clients and estate agents it has been well received.”