Infometrics has revised its expectations for economic growth next year upwards

It now predicts year-end growth at 0.9-percent.

Inflation data out this week also shows inflationary pressures were easing -- more than had been expected.

Chief forecaster Gareth Kiernan says with the incoming government likely relaxing tax rules for property investors, there could be a boost in buyer demand for housing.

He says with mortgage rates remaining relatively high, housing affordability will still be problematic -- so they see limited scope for house prices to rise rapidly next year.