House price volatility in the Express

When it comes to how the Express reports the housing market, it has often seemed like the only way is up.

Earlier this month we showed how the paper had used a selective interpretation of expert analysis to proclaim a surge in prices was just around the corner.

Then last week the paper gleefully reported forecasts from market analysts Assetz - who genuinely did see good news on the horizon.

Odd then, that in the paper's reporting of figures showing a doubling of average house prices in 10 years, a cautionary note is given about what the next ten years could hold.

"But instead of more huge rises, experts say the housing market is heading for a long period of stability."

Intriguingly though the paper's online readers are treated to a slightly rosier outlook - with the additional words in bold.

"The rise is proof positive of the long-term investment benefits of bricks and mortar, although property experts say the next 10 years are unlikely to see the same soaring price rises.

Instead, the housing market is heading for a long period of stability and modest gains, according to the Halifax."

Despite concerns over the previous reported 'surge', at least this time the explanation of the more positive tone seems to be due to the shorter space accorded the print report.

After all, in a departure from recent reports, the article actually quotes a market analyst suggesting the future may not be so bright.

Both versions included the quote from Philip Clarke of Fisher Property Services, who warned that a "choppy, ultra-volatile" market could be the norm in the coming years.

"The house price growth of the next 10 years is unlikely to mirror the past 10 years."

"The choppy, ultra-volatile nature of the market over the past six months could be how the market fares for the next six or so years."

Bizarrely, despite the use of this warning of volatility, both the print and online reports assure readers we are set for "a long period of stability".