Back on the market

After two months of stagnation and uncertainty caused as a result of the coronavirus lockdown, the housing market in England can restart today with buyers and renters now being allowed to view properties and move home under new rules. 

Regulations are now in force which means those buyers and renters can once again view properties physically, arrange removals and move home. The official guidance can be found here - https://www.gov.uk/guidance/government-advice-on-home-moving-during-the-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak

The sales market has essentially been on hold since late March when the government advised against all non-essential house moves and prohibited agents from listing new properties and as a result only a handful of transactions have been able to complete.

Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has stated “I am announcing new guidelines to allow the housing market to resume. Our clear plan will enable people to move home safely, covering each aspect of the sales and letting process from viewings to removals. Our step by step plan is based on the latest guidance to ensure the safety and protection of everyone involved. This critical industry can now safely move forward, and those waiting patiently to move can now do so.”

Head of residential property at George Green, Kevin Gilbert says ““It is positive news that the housing market is being opened up and people can let, rent, buy and sell properties again. Hopefully the regulations which have been announced will enable estate agents to deal with the interest of customers which has had to be on hold since lockdown. This should stimulate the housing market boost to the economy. Of course, the safety of individuals remains of critical importance and I encourage everyone to follow Government guidelines closely to protect others and themselves.”