IN BRIEF

10 January 1997

IN BRIEF

SAVILLS has reported a 64% rise in pre-tax profits to £3m for the six months to Oct 31, 1996.

Turnover was up 30% at £24.1m. Buoyant markets, and the strong seasonal activity of residential sales, helped performance.

But the outlook for the second half of the year is likely to be less good. The approach of the general election will limit market activity. And in some regions the price of bare agricultural land may fall by 10% during 1997.

But land is still in demand and premiums are being paid for amenity estates.