Northern Ireland property sales soar and prices rise as the housing market booms

Good morning
In today's News Letter Graeme Cousins reports as sales soar and prices rise as the Northern Ireland housing market booms. The University of Ulster (UU) house price survey found that transactions are at their highest level for almost 20 years. The UU researchers noticed what they called a “race for space,” with lockdown having influenced the sort of home that people now want.
We continue to report on the impact on bereaved families of NI soldiers as the Taliban take back control of Afghanistan. East Londonderry MLA Claire Sugden expected that the fall of Afghanistan to the Taliban will leave some bereaved families of service personnel questioning the conflict. Doug Beattie echoed Ms Sugden’s words, urging the Stormont Executive to provide homes for Afghans who helped allied forces.
We are also looking ahead to the 'Last Saturday' marches. The Sovereign Grand Master of the Royal Black Preceptory has said that the upcoming marches on Saturday August 28 will offer loyalists a sliver of joy after a “dispiriting” 18 months of coronavirus and lockdowns.
You can also see the full list of events here.
Have a good afternoon
Michael Cousins

Acting Managing Editor

Subscriptions
Did you know you can subscribe to the News Letter for only £1 month for the first three months? With our most popular offer, Digital +, you'll get unlimited access to the website, see 70% fewer ads, be able to access our online puzzles section and access the newspaper edition app on mobile, tablet and desktop.
Support the News letter today and help us continue to tell your stories for generations to come.