ESSEX is bucking a national trend of a reduction in the number of house buyers.

New figures published by the National Association of Estate Agents shows that the number of house buyers has fallen by a third year on year.

But estate agents across south Essex are adamant this is not the case in the area.

The National Association of Estate Agents housing market report shows that demand in July was at the lowest seen since November 2013 and a third lower than July last year.

The report also shows supply of housing increased marginally in July and that the number of sales made to first time buyers decreased by five per cent from June.

Colin MacLean, director of Amos Estate Agents, Thundersley, said this shows a north-south divide.

He added: “I think in Essex we have been benefiting from the central London market as the market has been spreading out into Essex. Examples of this are parts of Romford and Upminster.

“London buyers are buying more property in Essex as they can get to London easily.

“Essex house prices are also much less than house prices in London.

“While other parts of the country are maybe struggling in terms of the housing market, in Essex we are still going strong.”

John Pring, of Fisks Estate Agents, Benfleet, also said that the housing market in Essex is stable.

He added: “I would say that in the last 12 months the amount of people enquiring about buying homes has been consistent.

“There is demand there and people want to move house and buy new homes.

“I would say that the steady demand and steady amount of people enquiring about buying new homes is why the housing market in Essex is in a good state.

“There is also money available for people to borrow and this always helps to keep the housing market alive and well.

“The increased demand and interest is what has led to the increase in house prices in recent times.

“I am not saying that the latest figures from the Association of Estate Agents is wrong but I am not sure that this is the case in South Essex.”

Mark Hayward, managing director of the National Association of Estate Agents, said: “We expected uncertainty in the immediate period following Brexit and during summer it quietens.”