House prices have risen by a whopping 75 per cent in Southend over the last decade.

New figures reveal Southend has seen a 74.85 per cent increase since 2010 - the second highest rise in England.

Bosses at estate agents in the town say the statistics don’t come as a surprise, and could even increase further within the next ten years.

The average price for a home in 2010 sat at £170,948, but now the cost averages at £298,904.

Southend was joined in the top ten league by Harlow (up 74.92 per cent and Thurrock (up 73.2 per cent).

The data from the Land Registry, which has been analysed by Cash Lady, a housing price calculation service

Mike Gray, managing director of Dedman Gray, an estate agents based in Thorpe Bay, told buyers to be prepared for a further increase in prices.

He said: “Since the credit crunch prior to 2010, prices have been steadily increasing, and are now back to the highest peaks of the early housing market.

“In most cases, there has been a minimum increase of 60 per cent in price.

“We’ve not only seen in improvement in the housing market, but Southend has seen a boost in additional popularity as homes by the sea appeal to applicants.

“There has been an increase in both demand and prices.”

He said a huge boost for the market was investment in leisure facilities and connectivity.

Mr Gray said: “We have had further advancements in prices due to improved facilities, such as the airport and new hotels and leisure offers, which all contribute to the attraction of Southend as a place to live.”

He added: “Hotels and homes work in conjunction.

“It all adds to the atmosphere around the town and is one of the attractions of moving here.”

Mr Gray issued buoyant long-term predictions for Southend’s housing market.

He added: “If you look at the next ten years, I would expect further price increases, and Southend could compete strongly with popular destinations across the UK.”

Mr Gray said the town’s close proximity to London was another factor stimulating the housing market.

He added: “Southend’s close connection to London is an added advantage.

“This enables people to work in London, but live on the coast with a travel time of under an hour.”