Our new residential magazine looks at what's happening in your area: ‘We expect the market to stay firm this year.'

Last year, the market in Harrogate remained resilient in spite of the economic downturn, with an impressive number of viewings across a wide range of properties. Homes at the lower end of the market were the star performers, with some flats in the £250,000 to £350,000 bracket attracting upwards of 15 viewings within the first few days. As for the rural market, attractive cottages and farmhouses sold well, especially those requiring modernisation and in exceptional locations. The top end of the market was the most badly affected, with a limited number of viewings for country houses, but we are already seeing signs of change.

It has been a year of extremes, with a converted mill selling within 48 hours, with 35 enquiries on the first day, whereas a property near Stokesley sold to the 51st viewer after 18 months of marketing.

House prices in North Yorkshire have reportedly dropped by 5-10%, depending on which source you believe, but as with the number of viewings, falls in price are a symptom of the quality, location and desirability of a particular property rather than more general market trends. The best properties didn't see a drop in price at all last year, while the worst were dramatically affected.

Over the coming year, we expect the market in Harrogate to stay firm, with a consistent flow of new buyers, and prices to remain relatively stable, with premiums being achieved for the best addresses. A broadly similar picture is expected in the country - as prices at the top end of the market have fallen more than most, we should see improvement in this area over the next 12 months.

Medium-term predictions are that interest rates will remain low, and this, together with the government's plans to help first-time buyers, should help get the market moving. As ever, the best way to encourage serious buyers is to set a realistic guide price.

Read the full magazine: &homes - North Yorkshire