The pace at which the housing market has recovered across the UK has taken many by surprise. The stamp duty holiday has helped to kickstart the market, but so too has the desire for many to change where they live, be that by moving to a new area or simply adding a bedroom or garden to their wish list.

Of course, the prime market has its own unique challenges. Agents are reporting fewer overseas buyers and corporate relocations, both of which provide a key source of demand for prime London homes. Add into the mix the well-publicised escape to the country and many were concerned as to how central London would fare. But despite this, the summer sales market has been surprisingly busy.