BOLTON entered the million pound property market for the first time this week with two homes carrying seven figure price tags.

Despite warnings of property price slow downs in the South of England estate agents say prices among luxury homes in Bolton remain buoyant. The view was reinforced this week with two plush residences in the town being put up for sale.

Ousel Nest house on Grange Road, Bromley Cross, is a large stone home sitting in four acres of landscaped gardens and boasting a magnificent swimming pool complex.

Estate agent Miller Metcalfe is expecting it to sell for around £1.25 million.

And in Lostock, Edwards & Co is inviting offers of around £1 million for La Jandan in High Bank Lane.

The house, built nine years ago by the present owner, has five reception rooms and swimming pool complex with up to six bedrooms.

Local estate agents say that while prices among lower and middle range properties in Bolton are levelling out professional high fliers are prepared to pay whatever it takes to get the home and lifestyle they want in the town.

Derek Anderson, director of Edwards & Co say that prices have been rising steadily and in the last few days they have exchanged contracts on a Lostock property for £850,000.

"People are not phased by the million pound mark any more," said Mr Anderson.

"Anything that is good and in the right location will sell."

"I am optimistic for the future."

His views are echoed by Andrew Thompson from Miller Metcalfe, who is giving potential buyers for Ousel Nest House a virtual tour of the property on the company website.

He feels property prices have reached a plateau in the town since the summer after rises earlier in the year.

Jonathan Postle from Reeds Rains believes buyers for the luxury properties in Bolton are being enticed away from the property hotspots of South Manchester.

"There is a lot more interest from people in Manchester because they are realising they can get a lot more for their money in Bolton," he said.

Despite the uncertain world situation he says people are still being attracted to spending on their homes, particularly with the current record low interest rates.

"People are stretching themselves a bit more. They are prepared to pay the prices," he said.