I know it's hard to say, but what are the predictions for house prices this year?

[LowLevelWhiiingeing]

We have to make a decision whether to move or not. One option would be to buy now and rent out our current house, then sell at a later date. But if house prices are heading down again, maybe that's not such a great idea?

So, you clever lot: any wisdom for me?

Most 'experts' predict a fall. Mortgage lending is getting stricter, there is a lot of job insecurity and a lack of pay rises. I think it also depends on area, some places will not see a fall (like Cambridge, parts of London) but most will. The fall will be steady, I don't think that you will suddenly see massive drops.

If you need to move then the place you are buying will also be for less. I don't think that prices are going to shoot up, they will fall and eventually become stable. But who knows?

only rent out if you can afford to cover the mortgage if you cant rent it out.

As Jeremyess says mostly a fall (see www.guardian.co.uk/business/poll/2010/dec/31/housing-market-2011-price-predictions) although how much will be area dependent. Could be up and down as it has been for the last 6 months or so. Media are also talking the market down at the moment which will affect buyer sentiment. However, I wonder what will happen once people start to buy houses again?

Could you try the market? If you are in a desirable area with good schools you may not have any problem selling. Good luck with your decision

Thanks for this. If we were going to move, we'd need to do it quickly, hence the idea to rent out so as to have no chain. Our other option is to do it at the end of the year, which would be logistically easier really.

Maybe we should just hang on as we're not desperate to move now.

I agree with you - think there will be a lot of uncertainty around this year and therefore will not be an easy time to sell a house!