Bradley Start, a partner at Start & Co in the Cornish town of Newquay, says he’s getting requests for viewings within minutes of a property being listed on Rightmove, with many homes going to best and final offers – something he would normally see only rarely.

“The stock shortage is the worst I’ve seen in thirty years and there’s just seemingly endless demand” says Start.

“It’s a mix of locals moving, people buying holiday homes and those relocating completely, which is leading to more out-of-town buyers than we would normally see.

“Those who are choosing to relocate are, understandably, looking for a home right by the sea, which is pushing up demand even more for those homes with the all-coveted sea view.

“The lack of stock I think is mostly down to the fact that sellers are unsure that they will be able to find a replacement property to buy, but if more sellers decided to come to market this would help across the whole chain.”

It’s a similar story in some other parts of the country.

Simon Shepherd, branch manager of Ashtons in Newton-Le-Willows says: “The past year has just been crazy. First-time buyers are queuing up for starter homes, and many of those moving from starter homes are looking for four bed detached homes which are few and far between. When one comes up for sale it’s snapped up immediately, especially those that are within walking distance to the high street.

“Some people are selling up their smaller houses closer into Liverpool and moving out here as well, which has pushed up prices to an all-time high.

“Right now I’ve had to rip up the rule book because the demand means it’s hard to predict what a home is going to sell for, as in many cases we’re achieving over the asking price.”