One in four property sales went to first-time buyers in April, despite fears that they were being squeezed out of the market.
April's housing market report from the National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) showed that 26% of sales went to first-time buyers, up from 22% in March.
But estate agents remain pessimistic about the prospects for new buyers trying to enter the market.
NAEA agents don't expect first-time buyers to return in large numbers over the next five years.
And 55% think that house prices will continue to increase over that time and push first-time buyers out of the market.
The research also showed that three quarters of estate agents don't see supply and demand levelling out over the next five years.
And more than nine out of 10 thought the General Election result was great news for the housing market.
Demand remained steady in April, with 344 house hunters registered per branch, against 343 in March.
But property supply fell sharply, down from 48 in March to 43 in April.
Mark Hayward, managing director, NAEA, said: "The market is notoriously tough for first-time buyers. House prices continue to increase and lenders have tight and restrictive lending criteria.
"Whilst this month's figures are positive and a step in the right direction, I'd like to think that with the help of 200,000 new starter homes and the Help to Buy ISA, first-time buyers will be given even more help to get their foot on the ladder.
"However these things may take time to come to fruition."
NAEA agents believe the Conservative government's their plan to build 200,000 new starter homes will benefit consumers the most.
Two in five believed that the Help to Buy ISA will be the most beneficial, allowing first-time buyers to save more for their first home.
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