*Property sales expected to rise* According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), a net balance of 25% of property professionals expect an increase in house sales over the next year, the highest level since February. Despite this optimism, 26% reported a decline in new buyer inquiries, marking the fifth consecutive month of decreases. RICS chief economist Simon Rubinsohn said that the Government's affordable housing commitments "should provide greater certainty and support more strategic delivery." Meanwhile, 34% of professionals anticipate a rise in house prices, although current prices appear stable, with 8% reporting a decline in May. The lettings sector is also seeing increased tenant demand, leading to expectations of rising rents. Tarrant Parsons, RICS senior economist, noted that while conditions remain subdued, there are signs of stabilisation in sales expectations, suggesting a gradual recovery may be on the horizon.