LONDON (MarketWatch) -- Homebuilder Taylor Wimpey said Tuesday that net private reservations for the second half of 2008 averaged around 137 per week, down from 225 at the same point last year. The firm completed 13,394 homes in 2008, down from a proforma figure of 20,690 last year. Average selling prices were 171,000 pounds for 2008, compared to 188,000 pounds in 2007, reflecting ongoing pricing pressure and a higher proportion of affordable completions. The year-end order book stood at 4,231 homes, down from 5,109 homes at the same point a year ago. Discussions with debt providers relating to the refinancing of existing debt facilities continue on a constructive basis. "We remain of the view that there will not be a recovery in the U.K. housing market in the short term," the firm said.

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