Estate agents hold the key to ensuring Omicron doesn’t destroy our property market – NAPB

ESTATE agents hold the key to ensuring Omicron doesn’t dent the house market boom which is continuing to sweep Britain, an expert says.

The Prime Minister last week announced the move to ‘Plan B’ which will place Brits under a number of new restrictions – including recommendations on work from home.

It has also led to fears among those hoping to tie up house moves before Christmas that chains may break down.

But Jonathan Rolande, from the National Association Of Property Buyers, says the market is well equipped for the new challenges.

“The industry should not be rocked by the new measures announced last week,” he said. “The property market is open for business albeit with a few adjustments and those looking to complete should feel confident. Estate agents, who have already quickly adapted to the unprecedented challenges Covid has thrown up, will hold the key in the days and weeks ahead. Everyone involved needs to be flexible and respectful of people who may become nervous. Move dates might have to be moved if someone tests positive. Solicitors may slow-down again as they re-adjust to WFH.”

Mr Rolande said there are a number of measures those involved in buying or selling a home can take in the short term.

He said: “Masks are the most obvious first line of defence. These should be worn by agents in offices and by visitors during home viewings. Estate agents would also be well advised to make clear, ahead of viewings, that masks are needed to avoid any confrontations on the doorstep when a viewing is due to take place.

” Employers should revisit their Risk Assessments too and update it as required. Virtual viewings are helpful, as are video tours and floor plans. Some tenants will rent a home without a viewing but very few people will buy without inspecting.

“There are also practical steps estate agents can take. Sellers and agents should open doors, cupboards etc to avoid heavy use of touch points like handles. Agents should carry hand gel and sanitary masks for a viewer or vendor in case they don’t have one. Good agents will issue shoe covers for viewings of occupied property. Ventilation is important. Ask sellers to keep windows open before, during and after viewing to change the air. This might present issues with winter temperatures and some home-owners will worry about security. Agents should think ahead and advise sellers of their intention to ventilate and ask if any windows have defects. Agents should also check their insurance will cover errors if a window is left ajar and there is an issue.”

But Jonathan says one traditional part of the house viewing process which must be consigned to the dustbin.

“Don’t shake hands,” he says. “This sounds obvious. But often a deal is struck on a viewing, whilst the iron is hot. This should be done outside to reduce indoor contact time.

The world we now live in has new challenges, rules and etiquette and is creating necessary but tricky compliance issues for estate agents across the UK. How they navigate them will be vital.”