LOCKDOWN II – WHAT DOES IT MEAN FOR THE PROPERTY MARKET?

We now have clarity on the extent to which the new lockdown will further restrict the housing market and limit the way we operate – and to all intents and purposes, thankfully it won’t.  We will still be here in our offices or WFH helping clients and customers with their home moves, albeit whilst we remain open for business, our offices remain shut to the public for now, other than by appointment.

Last Saturday, Housing minister Robert Jenrick revealed – on Twitter, where else? – “that ‘the housing market will remain open throughout this period. Everyone should continue to play their part in reducing the spread of the virus by following the current guidance”.  He also later tweeted that both removal firms and estate agents will be ‘able to operate’.

Later, on Tuesday, The Public Health Regulations which underpin the second national lockdown in England were revealed. The Regulations specifically state that activities relating to the housing market are allowed to continue.

People are “permitted to undertake any of the following activities in connection with the purchase, sale, letting or rental of a residential property—

(i) visit estate or letting agents, developer sales offices or show homes;

(ii) view residential properties to look for a property to buy or to rent;

(iii) prepare a residential property to move in;

(iv) move house;

(v) visit a residential property to undertake any activities required for the rental or sale of that property.”

This means that we can continue to conduct our business whilst following our existing protocols, which limit viewers to only those likely to make an offer; limit attendees of viewings to no more than two adults from the same household; and require everyone attending to wear face-masks, avoid touching surfaces and ensure hands are sanitised or washed both before and after the viewing.

We appreciate that these are uncertain times, and our heartfelt sympathies lie with those whose health or livelihoods have been affected by the pandemic and lockdown.  We remain committed to providing quality advice and service to our clients and customers – so, if we can help you with a property-related matter, please give us a call.