House sales up 75 per cent

House sales in the first three months of the year were 75 per cent ahead of the same period last year, according to Cornerstone, Abbey National's estate agency chain. Jack Hansen, national sales director, said: 'The overall picture shows a solid base of demand, which is getting stronger daily. With viewings and actual sales up, the light at the end of the housing market tunnel is finally in sight.' However, prices were stable or still falling slightly.