Despite COVID-19 limitations, agents have been largely permitted to open in areas where local lockdown restrictions have been enforced, and house moves have still progressed. It seems yet again, the pandemic hasn’t been a deterrent for buyers and renters determined to make a change.
Propertymark has joined up with the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) Wales in their campaign for political parties to commit to expanding the evidence base for housing by introducing a Welsh Housing Survey (WHS).
Today, 19 October, First Minister Mark Drakeford announced that the Welsh Government will impose a two-week fire-break period which requires Welsh residents to stay at home from 6pm on Friday 23 October until Monday 9 November. Today's rules also apply to those traveling into Wales from other parts of the UK: you are permitted to travel into Wales to work as long as you comply with the rules.
Responding to the Comprehensive Spending Review 2020, Propertymark highlights the requirement for the UK Government to invest in appropriate infrastructure and innovation, to level up economic opportunity.
Agents have a responsibility to provide clear, accurate information to buyers of new-build homes under the Consumer Code for Home Builders, which was developed by homebuilders, construction industry bodies, and Government, to provide new homeowners with confidence when choosing a property.
The 10 October marks #WorldHomelessDay, and not only does it provide a platform for Propertymark to raise awareness of opportunities to combat homelessness, but it also highlights our continued support and how others can do the same.
The UK Government announced, on 7 October, further updates to the Safeguarding Directions (safeguarded zone) and zoned property schemes that replace all previous versions.
Following a review, which lasted over a year, the National Trading Standards Estate and Letting Agency Team (NTSELAT) has, today 2 October, proposed that new legislation be introduced so that all customers must be told about third party referral fees when buying or selling a home. This is to improve transparency across the sector and ensure consumers feel confident in the services agents provide.