PROPERTY prices across Kent are forecast to rise significantly over the next five years with the average cost of a home in the county predicted to increase overall by 14.9 per cent on average by 2010.

Detailed research carried out by Your Mortgage, the independent consumer magazine, predicts that property prices in certain parts of Kent could rise by more than 22 per cent over the next five years. For example, Thanet will see a substantial growth rate of 22.7 per cent by 2010.

Elsewhere, Shepway is forecast to increase by 18.8 per cent, Swale by 17.8 per cent, Dover by 16.8 per cent and Canterbury by 16 per cent. There could also be gains in Ashford (14.7 per cent), Dartford (13.7 (per cent), Maidstone (12.4 per cent) and Tunbridge Wells (10.7 per cent).

The figures are comprehensive and have been sourced using a wealth of data including regional and national population trends, employment forecasts and current and expected levels of housing stock.

Andy Stewart, consultant editor of Your Mortgage, said: "Never has the phrase ‘location, location, location’ been so pertinent. The British love affair with the housing market continues apace and with so much personal wealth tied up in residential property it is good to see such a healthy forecast for Kent.

"The good news is that all parts of the county are set to see rising property values over the next five years and although this is a far cry from the boom years of 2001 and 2004, when many areas witnessed double figure growth year by year, it is nevertheless reassuring for those homeowners who may have anticipated a crash in the market."

* Your Mortgage is a monthly independent guide to the home-buying process. Published by Incisive Media, the magazine has been produced for 19 years. It costs £3.75.