Moving Safely In Leyton As Property Market Re-Opens

The housing market has re-opened, and there are people and housheolds moving. We examine if it is safe to move in and around Leyton, so check out our blog to learn what you need to know.

With the housing market in England open again, people are allowed to move home. Households whose property move was put on hold will feel relieved to be able to move again. There will also be people whose circumstances have changed who will be pleased to be able to move again.

Of course, while the market is open again, restrictions are in place, and Government guidance must be followed. With guidance being updated over time, make sure you stay up to date with the latest information by following us on social media.

Kate Faulkner, chair of the Home Buying & Selling Group, said: “The reopening of the property market is incredibly important for those currently stuck in properties which are no longer suitable for them. However, both property professionals and consumers need to make sure they adhere to these new guidelines so everyone can move safely. The property sector has worked incredibly hard to ensure these guidelines allow buying, selling and renting a home to be done safely, which is of paramount importance. Consumers will need to be patient while the industry gears up to move them.”

Can the market function as normal?

No. While it is comforting to know house moves can be concluded, people shouldn’t expect the market to function as normal. The market, and movers, must adapt to the current circumstances. Hopefully people and agents can do as much as they can online, but there will be times when people must meet in person.

Vendors should:

• Offer virtual viewings wherever possible
• Ensure their property is cleaned to the highest possible standard
• If physical viewings are taking place, vendors should vacate their premises for the duration of the viewing

The Government has warned the market be may be paused again if required, so it is best if then guidance is followed closely to minimise problems arising.

Are removal companies able to work again?

Many people have raised concerns about removal companies operating right now. It should also be noted that a guide produced by a range of industry bodies, including the British Association of Removers (BAR) states; “Packing by the remover is currently limited to china, glass and breakable items.”

People moving home are encouraged to do as much of their packing themselves, and to ensure all surfaces at home are wiped clean.

Are social distancing rules still in place for the property market?

Yes. These rules should be followed:

• Adhere to the two-metre guidelines
• Bring and use hand sanitiser when attending a property
• Do not touch any surfaces
• Leave windows open as much as possible to allow air to circulate
• Wash your hands before entering a property

Other quick tips to consider include:

• Bear in mind only then housing market in England has re-opened, markets in Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland haven’t been re-opened as of yet
• Open house viewings are not currently permitted
• People who have shown symptoms of the coronavirus, or who share a home with someone who has, should delay their move and undertake a period of self-isolation
• Surveyors are subject to the same guidelines
• There is no limit on the distance people can move, as long as public health guidance is followed

We know these are challenging times, but if you have any questions about the local property market, please feel free to contact us. At Ariston Property, we aim to support the local community as best we can, and we look forward to assisting you in any way.