Property: How to buy and sell home during the coronavirus crisis - important warning
MANY estate agents across the country have closed their doors as the coronavirus pandemic continues. Are you still able to buy or sell your property? Experts issue an important warning.
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Buying and selling property can be a stressful experience no matter when you choose to do it. However, the coronavirus lockdown has made this more complicated with Britons advised not to move. Can you still buy and sell your home?
Plans for moving home have been put on hold as the coronavirus lockdown continues.
Homeowners have been encouraged to postpone moving dates as much as possible, experts at TRUE Solicitors explained.
They said: "You do not need to pull out of transactions but follow safety guidelines.
"If the property is vacant you are moving into, you can continue with this transaction. But should follow guidance on home removals.
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"If you are moving into a property that will have occupants until the moving date, all parties are encouraged to move the date until COVID-19 stay at home measures are no longer in place."
While Britons have been advised against moving house to keep up social distancing, they could still be able to put their home on the market.
Homeowners are also still able to put offers on properties, although this could be a slow process during lockdown.
"If someone puts in an offer at this moment, you can still accept it," the experts commented.
"But, be aware that the selling process will take longer."
While homeowners may want to put their homes on the market now, the experts warned why this might not be a good idea.
They continued: "You can still put your house on the market but it may not be practical right now.
"You are not allowed professional photographers to take pictures of your home, and advertising without those can lead to a 61 percent loss in page views on a house selling site.
"Similarly, many buyers will not purchase a property without physically entering the home.
"Therefore, this is the best time to ensure your house is in its best selling shape."
Viewings can also still take place for those hoping to buy and sell a property if done virtually.
While some sellers will be less likely to buy a home they have not physically seen, it could still be an option for some sellers.
"You are still permitted to advertise your home during the lockdown, but without ‘real’ viewings," they explained.
"Many estate agents are now conducting virtual viewings, which could be an option for you.
"Searches for ‘virtual viewings’ have increased by 92 percent."
While Britons are not able to go and view houses, some still have the demand to do so online.
This means those who are selling a property could still be successful in doing so during the lockdown, but it may not be as easy.