Its coastal location and easy links to London cemented Hastings as a favourite with buyers fleeing the capital last year. Property prices in the area jumped by 17pc in 2021, to an average of £299,000, according to Rightmove.

Jordon Matthews, of Fox and Sons estate agency, said: “There was a build-up of people who decided to hold off until January, but they are now keen to sell. Sellers are still staying within Hastings, but they are getting really good prices for their homes and selling very quickly.” 

The smaller properties on Battle Road, which runs through the middle of the town, have been particularly popular among first-time buyers, he added, who are being favoured by mortgage lenders with competitive rates. 

Breckland 

Last year in Breckland, Norfolk, bidding wars were rife and properties consistently sold above asking price, said Sam Jones, of Sowerbys estate agency.

“The stamp duty holiday and competition to escape to the country last year saw many people simply buying wherever there was stock. Now we are seeing a number of those people coming back to market, looking to relocate again – this time within the county, having spent time getting to know the area,” he said.