Current UK housing market conditions suit both buyers and sellers, according to Connells.

The firm has highlighted that although prices may be growing at a slow pace now, they are set to pick up very soon.

With this in mind, first-time buyers may find that now is an excellent time to enter the property market and secure a house for a bargain price.

"At the moment there is less competition around from cash buyers and investors so first-time buyers have a better chance of securing a good property at a realistic price," said Liz Brown, senior area director at Connells.

"House prices at the moment are pretty static but, following recent cuts in interest rates, we expect them to start picking up again as buyer confidence returns. It therefore makes a lot of sense to buy and sell now," she added.

Selling while prices are lower may not seem like a good idea but Ms Brown pointed out that it can have its benefits.

"We understand that someone planning to sell their first property might think it better to wait until prices go up but, if they are buying and selling in the same market place then that''s not the case," she continued.

"If they accept a slightly reduced offer on their home then, with the sale agreed, they are in a strong position to negotiate the same percentage reduction on the property they are buying," added Ms Brown.