What Lockdown Means for Estate Agents

Posted on November 26, 2020

England entered its second nationwide lockdown on November 5 with a flurry of new restrictions.

However, the good news is that the property market will continue to operate while adhering to COVID safety guidance. Robert Jenrick, the Secretary of State for Housing, announced that estate agents across England can continue their operations

In this post, we answer some of your biggest questions about the property market.

Can I move house during lockdown?

Yes. House removals, truck hire and other services related to house moving will remain operational during the second lockdown.

However, home sellers and home movers are expected to follow the social distancing guidelines and to ensure moving home is secure and safe.

Are estate agents in Newcastle open?

The government has allowed estate agents to remain open. You can visit your estate or letting agents in Newcastle. However, it’s important to follow COVID-19 safety guidelines like sanitising your hands and wearing a mask.

Can I view properties in person?

Yes, property viewings are allowed. Per the new rules of the second lockdown, you can visit developer sales offices, letting and estate agents, show homes and go on viewings.

Your estate agent might schedule an initial viewing virtually so you can schedule an in-person viewing only for homes you are interested in.

During in-person viewings, all the parties involved (homeowners, estate agents, and prospective home buyers) should follow COVID-19 safety guidelines.

Can I put my house for sale during the second lockdown?

Yes, you can put your house on the market for sale. With the new rules in place, people can visit a property to get it ready for rent or sale.

This includes having pictures taken for your listing, getting a valuation from your estate agent, getting Energy Performance Certificates and drawing up floor plans.

What does the second lockdown mean for property prices?

Following the first lockdown, the property market recovered dramatically. Thanks to the stamp duty holiday and pent up demand, property prices rose incredibly.

In fact, many people began to re-evaluate their homes to determine whether they met their changing needs.

This has sent people on a buying spree with prospective home buyers looking for homes with gardens and those working from home looking for home offices.

We Are Open

Wright Residential offices in Newcastle and Sunderland are open and our property managers would be happy to answer any questions you may have. Contact us online or call 0191 240 1818 to speak to our team.