The average UK house price is likely to rise by six per cent this year, according to a study published by the Centre for Economic and Business Research.

However, Helen Adams, managing director of FirstRungNow.com, said it is not good news for first-time buyers who will find that even more properties are outside their reach.

"It is disappointing because prices are going up but mortgage lenders are yet to come up with much of an offering for first time buyers," she commented.

Recent job losses and the fact that people have become much more prudent with their spending means that house prices rises may be unsustainable, Ms Adams explained.

"Some conditions are going to get better as well as worse and will fluctuate," she added.

According to the Centre for Economic and Business Research, values are likely to be around 20 per cent higher in 2014 than they are now.

People planning to move house may wish to make the process easier by using self storage facilities.

Written by Emily Sanders