Three out of four people expect house prices to rise over the next year and one in four are planning to buy property within the next 12 months, the latest MyHome.ie consumer sentiment survey shows.

The survey of 1,700 people, which was carried out earlier this month, reveals that 76 per cent of respondents believe house prices will increase over the coming months. This compares with 20 per cent who predict prices will remain stable and 4 per cent who expect a decline in the cost of buying a home.

Nearly half of those who expect prices to rise expect costs to jump by up to 5 per cent, while 25 per cent forecast a jump of up to 10 per cent.

Three-bedroom houses are the most sought after property type while respondents cited gardens, open plan kitchens and off-street parking as the most important features.

Potential buyers also far prefer second hand homes to new ones with proximity to schools or creches the most essential amenity, followed by a good public transport network.

More respondents said proximity to a local pub was the most important amenity than being close to parks and/or playgrounds.