The housing market continues to expand, despite claims of a downturn in the economy, figures released on Tuesday suggest.

In its latest survey, the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors finds that 46 per cent more of its members reported an increase in prices than those reporting a fall - the highest difference for six months and double the difference reported a month ago.

Completed house sales comprised more than half available housing stock.

Expectations are also high among chartered surveyors, the report found. Of those interviewed, 55 per cent more surveyors expected a rise in prices in the future, with 60 per cent more expecting completed sales to increase.

Residential housing spokesman for the RICS, Ian Perry, said the figures showed that the market had recovered from the events of September 11.

"The housing market is showing considerable strength right across the board, from prices through sales to new enquiries," he said.

"The market recovery has been extended through all types of housing, and looks set to continue in the coming months, although the increasing number of job losses being reported in the media could have a restraining influence on the market should they continue."