The boom in the housing market shows no signs of abating, according to figures published by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors.

Of those interviewed, 49 per cent more chartered surveyors reported price increases than those reporting a fall, while house price inflation reached its highest level since July.

Predictions for the future were optimistic, with 64 per cent more members expecting an increase in sales from the current average per surveyor of 37, and 71 per cent expecting prices to continue rising.

A shortage of houses on the market has been cited as the reason for the prolonged growth.

National housing spokesman for the group, Ian Perry, said: "Many buyers undoubtedly held back at the end of last year and have now made a decision to return to the market.

"With traditionally the busiest time of year still to come, a continued shortage of properties will have a significant impact on the market and could have a knock-on effect on prices as a result."