A sense of optimism is creeping into the local property market with some realtors reporting sales have picked up this year.But it’s a buyer’s market as house-hunters look for fairly priced properties in good condition, realtors said.Family homes under $900,000 that tick all the boxes appear to be in demand.At least two cottages attracted good interest and went under contract within about three months of being on the market.They included one in Paget listed in December with Rego Sotheby’s International Realty for $895,000, and one in the East End with Coldwell Banker Bermuda Realty that was listed for under $900,000 as well. Neither had any income apartment.“I’m more positive about 2013 than I was 2012,” said realtor Albert Moura of Moura & Associates. “We’ll need to start seeing positive economic news for this to gain some real momentum.”Mr Moura added: “I have seen a pick up since the beginning of the year and have just negotiated a PRC sale as a result of the policy change. Although the increased activity hasn’t been major the quality of the activity has been good with more and more offers coming in.”Government has announced proposed significant reductions in property purchase licence fees for both international buyers and Permanent Resident Certificate holders (PRC’s).“Moments after Government announced the proposed land policy changes, we received calls and e-mails from prospects and the inquiries continue to come,” said Penny Pascual MacIntyre, EVP of Rego Sotheby’s International Realty.“The increased activity stems from PRCs and Non-Bermudian buyers currently renting here who are ready to buy as well as foreigners who have waited on the sidelines in hopes of changes to the license fees due.“Our agents are busy with clients — many of whom will only consider fairly priced, ready-to-move-in condominiums and free-standing homes.”She stated: “Most important, we’re putting more properties under contract. We hope momentum continues and expect it will as we are also gaining more quality listings from sellers interested in taking advantage of the increased activity.”Ms Pascual MacIntyre added: “We have international buyers considering bringing their companies here plus staff; Looking at rental accommodations for staff as well.”Bermuda’s real estate market has been stagnant for several years, which is reflected most alarmingly in the number of sales in 2012, according to Coldwell Banker Bermuda Realty.It said the figure, was in the region of 200 sales (still awaiting final government records), compared to 2008 at the height of the market when over 600 sales were recorded a 70 percent decline in market activity“While we commend the Government for their forward thinking and this announcement has simulated many conversations, the public is anxiously awaiting approval of these changes and formal release of accompany policy,” said Susan Thompson, agency manager for Coldwell Banker Bermuda Realty.She added: “The announcement has created much interest from both PRCs and Non Bermudians and we are optimistic that many will take advantage of these reduced license fees.”John Sinclair, of Sinclair Realty, exclusive affiliate of Christie’s International Real Estate here, said: “The upswing in interest from international purchasers since the December general election is absolutely palpable.“While I cannot speak in specific terms because these sales are still working themselves towards completion, we do have new international sales contracts secured and further serious negotiations underway.”Frederica Forth-Anglies, president of Century 21 Bermuda Properties, said: “I have had an increase in interest I would say it is more to do with a slight change in the economy than a change in Government land policy changes.