While we are pleased to see the housing market re-open, allowing people the chance to move, it is vital that social distancing guidelines are followed. New measures have been introduced to the market, allowing vendors and buyers to connect in a safe way, and at Spencer Harvey, we are committed to doing everything we can to ensure you feel confident about the sales or letting process.
A recent study carried out by Zoopla indicates that the majority of vendors are keen to utilise remote market appraisals when starting the sales process. Zoopla found 98% of respondents, all people considering selling their home, would prefer to receive a “remote market appraisal” as opposed to an in-person assessment.
Vendors don’t want people coming to their home right now
This shouldn’t be surprising. Even though some of the lockdown restrictions have been loosened, there are still many key measures in place. This includes limiting people coming to your home unless essential, and you can see why many vendors are keen to utilise the benefits of virtual viewings right now.
The same study details a 90.5% increase on the month-on-month usage of Property Valuation Reports (PVRs) and Comparable Reports by agents in May. These reports are useful in helping agents conduct remote appraisals.
Andy Marshall is the Chief Commercial Officer of Zoopla, and he said; “After a 50-day market suspension, our agent partners have told us loud and clear that they want to plough forth and rebuild their businesses. Central to this is replenishing stock pipelines, without posing a risk to their own health, their team’s health, or that of their vendors.”
Agents must adapt to provide the best standard of service
The overwhelming response of vendors asking for remote market appraisals suggests while people are keen to move forward, safety is the leading priority. Andy Marshall also said; “With 98% of prospective vendors citing remote market appraisals as their preferred means with which to start their property sale, it makes sense that we’ve registered an uptick in agent use of our PVRs and Comparable reports.”
The housing industry has faced many challenges in the past and has always managed to overcome barriers and obstacles. It is also fair to say the housing sector has evolved, utilising new technology to provide a better service to vendors, buyers, landlords and tenants.
Some experts were concerned about the emergence of the internet and its impact on traditional agents. What happened was the leading agents adapted their services, making the most of the new technology while benefitting from online property portals and digital communication.
The use of virtual tours and viewings are necessary in the current climate, but they will also offer opportunities as we move forward. At Spencer Harvey, we are committed to providing you with the best standard of service at all times.
With convenient transport links to the centre of Manchester, and significant developments taking place, Stockport is the ideal place to buy, live or invest. As Stockport property specialists, we want to ensure you stay in touch with the latest property news. If you are looking for assistance in this area, give Spencer Harvey a call on 0161 480 8888 or send us an email at info@spencerharvey.co.uk. For a free valuation please visit: https://www.spencerharvey.co.uk/valuation-enquiry.html