Property moves and viewings will be able to resume again in England from today, under new rules announced by the government yesterday, as part of the updated lockdown regulations presented to Parliament.
Renters and buyers had previously been told to hold off from moving home while the “stay at home” advice was in place.
Prospective renters and buyers are now permitted to visit show homes and view properties on the market to let or buy.
Tom Mundy, COO, Goodlord, commented: “It’s a huge relief to know that property viewings and moves will be permitted once more from this week. The whole industry has been on hold, with demand in the rental market building up as a result, meaning this news will be music to the ears of letting agents and tenants.
“Our Lettings Activity Tracker showed a steady increase in market activity during the first week of May, demonstrating that some of that pent up demand was already beginning to leak out. This announcement therefore comes at the right time.
“Some important questions remain, however, about how we ensure the safety of everyone concerned as we get the industry moving again.
“We very much hope the government releases more detailed advice around social distancing and how to protect tenants, prospective tenants, and agents – particularly when it comes to viewings.
“In the meantime, everyone in the industry must use a common sense approach to make things as safe as possible and to offer digital options for all parties wherever practicable.”
David Cox, chief executive of ARLA Propertymark and Mark Hayward, chief executive of NAEA Propertymark, said: “It’s great news for consumers and the industry that the housing market is being opened up and people can let, rent, buy and sell properties again.
“The new regulations provide clarity to agents and will allow them to deal with pent up demand from consumers. It’s also a step to reinvigorating the housing market and will be a boost to the economy. Safety of course will be paramount, and we would encourage everyone to ensure that they follow Government guidelines closely to protect others and themselves.”
