Connells Survey & Valuation has reported that valuation activity on residential properties in the second half of 2009 rose significantly on levels seen in 2008.

Over 2009, the number of valuations conducted each month has increased steadily compared to 2008 levels. For five consecutive months from August to December, the number of valuations conducted significantly exceeded the number for the same month of 2008. As a result, there were almost 20% more valuations in the second half of 2009 than in the same period of 2008.

December saw 52% more valuations than the same month of 2008, reflecting a growth in confidence in the housing market. This trend follows a trough in valuation activity in the first half of the year, compared to 2008. In January alone, valuation numbers were down nearly 60% on January 2008.

Ross Bowen, managing director of Connells Survey & Valuation, said: “The summer of 2009 was a marked turning point for the housing market