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Full details of limited re-opening of Welsh housing market released

Welsh agents discover just how limited the housing market re-opening is but at least both sales and lettings branches can finally re-open.

Nigel Lewis

housing market

Anger is building in Wales among many estate agents frustrated by the partial nature of the housing market re-opening announced on Friday.

First Minister Mark Drakeford revealed in his mid-day speech that viewings of empty properties could resume, as could home moves where a sale has been agreed but not yet completed.

Later guidance published by the Welsh government then revealed that vendors and landlords could put their properties on the market and that marketing of these properties can begin.

The guidance does provide some relief for agents, which are now able to open their branches and, under strict distancing and hygiene rules, accept visits from clients.

But except empty properties, the house moving process cannot progress past the point of marketing.

Housing market

“Valuations and other related activities should be carried out in line with safe working requirements. Initial viewings can only be carried out virtually,” the guidance says.

“You cannot view occupied homes where someone is still living. It is important viewings do not involve different households being inside at the same time, as the risk of transmission of coronavirus is higher.

“Virtual viewings of a home can be provided by a letting agent, estate agent or landlord.”

Propertymark says it has engaged with the Welsh Government throughout this process and lobbied Members of the Welsh Parliament urging all sides to implement a full reopening of the housing market in Wales.

June 22, 2020

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