DUNFERMLINE solicitors and estate agents Morgans report there has never been a better time to sell.

Property sales manager Robyn Morrocco said: “Looking back at 2016, we can safely say there was a lot of uncertainty in the property market caused by a variety of changes, both political and economic. 

“The Additional Dwelling Supplement adding three per cent on the purchase of second homes, the EU Referendum results and of course the resulting media furore surrounding Brexit.

"While we are still to ascertain the long-term impact of these changes, 2016 ended on a positive note with the numbers stacking up favourably for sellers and agents alike.

“Looking across the region, the latest ESPC data confirmed that between September to November 2016, the average property price in east central Scotland rose by 4.3 per cent to £218,217.

“Specifically in Dunfermline, the average selling price in Dunfermline rose by seven per cent to £155,650.

“Our Edinburgh neighbours witnessed an increase in average selling price of 3.7 per cent to £231,601.

“In October of 2016, sales to first-time buyers were at their highest levels since records began.

“The time to sell in east central Scotland is 31.9 per cent faster when compared to the same three-month period in 2015 – from 36 days down to 25 days.

“Looking at our own figures, Morgans ended the year with an average selling time of just 19 days. Nevertheless, there is always room for improvement – we hope to reduce this even further in 2017.

“Price rises can be attributed to a lack of supply with a decrease of 8.3 per cent in the number of properties brought to the market between that same time period of September to November 2016.

“We have witnessed an increasing trend where sellers become reluctant to put their property onto the market until they find a property they like. 

“While completely understandable, this creates a catch-22 scenario given that it is unlikely that as a buyer you will be able to secure a property if you have not yet sold your own. 

“Currently, the supply and demand dynamics weigh in the favour of the seller with a lack of property on the market. We would encourage anyone thinking of moving to get ahead of the trend and think about taking the next steps to bring their own property to market. 

“As we enter the Spring months, we would anticipate a flood of property listings, so our advice would be to get organised and make your move before everyone else does.

“With property prices increasing across the regions it is very evident that 2016 was a seller’s market and we can expect the same of 2017. We anticipate that the market will remain stable – coupled with the positive impact of the Queensferry Crossing opening – which will ensure that Dunfermline continues to be an attractive location for commuters.

“Our message to sellers is to Act Now – and if you haven’t already done so, get in touch to arrange your free pre-sale valuation.”