It found that consumers are finding it easier to access finance for mortgages than for any time in the last four years.

However, lack of ability to raise a deposit remained the biggest barrier to purchase for first-time buyers with 59% of potential homeowners unable to save enough to fund a deposit.

Problems accessing mortgage finance and lack of job security were also said to be major issues.

Confidence in the wider market remained low with just 38% of people thinking it was a good time to purchase a house.