First-time buyers made for 28% of house sales in August, an increase on the 20% recorded in July, according to Propertymark.

This is the highest proportion of sales to FTBs this year and the highest since the 29% figure seen in June 2020.

Propertymark also says that 37% of properties sold in August went for more than the asking price, which compares to 31% in July. And, in August 2020, 13% of properties sold for more than asking price – giving a yearly increase of 185%.

Demand and supply is, as it has been for some time, mismatched, Propertymark’s housing report also shows.

It says the number of properties available per estate agent member branch dropped from 28 per branch in July to 23 in August, giving an average of 19 buyers for each property on the market.

And there are 435 people looking to buy per branch on average – 10% more than there were in August last year.

Propertymark chief executive Nathan Emerson says: “This month’s report shows an enduring appetite amongst buyers, including the ongoing wave of new buyers securing their first homes.

“Lifestyle changes are still prevalent, and buyers are now looking to a future which is very different from the one they envisioned two years ago.

“The search for green space, home offices and more flexible living is a trend that is unlikely to see demand diminish before the new year.”