London agent Chestertons has announced that it is having a good year so far in both sales and lettings.

While giving no figures, it says that in the first six months, the number of new buyers registering rose by 30% year-on-year and viewing numbers were up 15%, resulting in a 19% uplift in agreed sales.

Managing director Guy Gittins said: “Activity over the last six months has shown a marked improvement compared to the same period last year, giving us an optimistic view for the rest of the year.

“The surge in buyer registrations at the start of the year and an uplift in viewings has converted into a considerable increase in agreed sales.

“However, with many of these deals not yet completed due to longer conveyancing periods, the results of the early-year boost will be felt over the autumn period.

“We have also seen a modest 1% rise in the number of properties that we have brought to the market for sale.”

In lettings the firm said profits were up by 62% compared with the same period a year ago, despite a 10% drop in available rental properties.