Prices across the south of the region have shot up during the past year – a reflection of the area’s growing role as an overflow for anyone who cannot afford the Cotswolds, or wants to commute to and from London. Evesham, Worcester, Rugby and Warwick have all seen annual growth of more than 20%, says the Halifax. The market has also been strong in the suburbs and villages that stretch from Solihull to Stratford-on-Avon – the two most expensive towns in the region, with average prices of £245,533 and £242,345 respectively.

Things have been more subdued in Birmingham, although Stuart Flint, head of Knight Frank’s office in the city, says that Edgbaston is still buoyant, with the best houses selling before they reach the open market. “But buyers are more fickle and are taking their time a bit more,” he says. “They are a bit more choosy, and are taking longer to sell their properties.”

Estate agents report a drift from Sutton Coldfield into the cathedral city of Lichfield and surrounding villages. Such migration has yet to reach Stoke-on-Trent, to the north, which has the lowest house prices in the region.

Average property price: £152,258

Annual change: 6.3%

Predictions: despite slight falls this year, prices are expected to stabilise or rise slightly in coming months. Knight Frank expects 5% growth

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