An issue regarding the UK housing market which no longer can be denied or ignored is taking center stage for those looking to find a residence. All across the country, the problem of housing shortage is real and not going away according to data from estate agents assisting those looking for a home. The latest data suggests there are more than 10 prospective buyers for every property on the market.

Just during the month of January, more than 420 buyers were registered to each and every estate agent, according to the latest figures from the National Association of Estate Agents. This is 10% higher than during the month of December.

Many houses are now being sold for more than their asking price. In fact, during the month of January, more than 5% of all homes sold were obtained for more than the asking price. This is shocking to many, but a direct result of the high demand for housing and few possible properties available for the number of buyers.

Many comments have been made regarding the issue of shortage and many government schemes have been proposed. But the problem continues to be major and appears to be threatening at a time when the country is bracing for the changes linked to the Brexit vote.

Mark Hayward of NAEA Propertymark commented on the current climate which exists among buyers of property, saying: "Competition is rife, with an average of 11 buyers chasing each property.”

Hayward added: "The increase in the number of properties selling for more than asking price in January could be a result of heightened interest and the fact there is simply not enough housing to meet demand.

"When the government issued their Housing White Paper at the start of February we stated how important it was for the industry to put forward robust solutions to really make a difference and it’s vital that building more affordable housing is at the very top of their agenda.”