House prices in the first three months of 2013 were 1.2% higher than in the final three months of 2012 according to the latest Halifax House Price Index. Commenting, Martin Ellis, housing economist, said: "The housing market continues to show signs of modest improvement. Prices in the first three months of 2013 were 1.2% higher than in the preceding quarter (fourth consecutive increase). Prices were 1.1% higher than in the first three months of 2012. House sales also continued to rise, according to the latest industry-wide figures. "Weak income growth and continuing below-trend economic growth are likely to remain ... (full story)