A recovering market saw margins at Taylor Wimpey hit 13.5% for the six months to June 30 compared to 11.2% last time.

Pre-tax profits were up 42% to £109m as half-year turnover hit £1,007m from £906m.

During the period Taylor Wimpey completed 5,191 homes compared to 5,083 last time as average prices rose to £188,000 from £176,000.

Taylor Wimpey is currently sitting on an order book of £1.3bn – which represents 7,101 homes.

The firm said: “In this improved market, our strong order book and outlet position is likely to lead to continued volume growth in the second half.”

The firm spent £233m on land during the first half of the year and now has a land bank of 101,566 plots.

Pete Redfern, Chief Executive, said: “During the first half of 2013, there has been meaningful improvement in the housing market, with more positive consumer sentiment, a more available and affordable mortgage market, and the presence of Government mortgage schemes, all adding to a favourable outlook.

“Our business is ideally positioned to perform well in this environment with a strong land position and a very effective housebuilding operation.

“We continue to open all new outlets with implementable planning permission.”