38% of home-movers forecast that average UK house prices will start 2012 at around the same level as they currently stand, according to the latest RIghtmove Consumer Confidence survey.

The proportion who predict house price ‘status quo’ one year out has risen for fifth consecutive quarter to highest level ever recorded by Rightmove.

‘Price-optimists’, those forecasting higher prices, fall back to 24%, their lowest level since January 2009 as economic realities begin to hit home.

Miles Shipside, director of Rightmove, said: “There is clearly a growing trend towards consumers believing prices will be more or less the same in 12 months’ time