With coronavirus cases on the rise again, the government has implemented Tier 3 restrictions in several English regions. There are restrictions in place in Scotland, and Wales have a 'firebreak lockdown' from this Friday until 9th November. What does all of this mean for house sales and home moves? Can you still buy or sell a property, are viewings allowed, and can you proceed with a house move?
- Learn to find the best mortgage rates with the help of our guide
- Find out the latest, accurate information on house prices in our guide
The good news is that as far as the rules go, the property market remains open for business. Even areas that currently fall under Tier 3 restrictions – Liverpool, Greater Manchester, and Lancashire – do not have bans on property viewings or house moves. However, in practice, if you are located in one of these areas, you may find that house sellers and estate agents are reluctant or unwilling to conduct viewings because people shouldn't be meeting anyone outside their support bubble.
It is likely that some sellers will suspend viewings altogether, while others may offer virtual tours instead. In fact, the Scottish government is already advising that house sellers and buyers adopt a virtual-first approach: only go and see the property in person if you're very serious about buying it. Do bear in mind that all the usual Covid rules apply to property viewings: social distancing, the wearing of face coverings, and hand and surface sanitising.
If you live in Wales, you currently can't go to a house viewing at all, although essential house moves that cannot be postponed and were agreed prior to the lockdown announcement can go ahead. If the spring lockdown is anything to go by, house removal companies will still operate, although some may choose to suspend taking on new jobs. If you are in Wales and moving, we strongly advise you get in touch with your removals company to confirm they will go ahead with the move.
Our advice if you're not sure whether you should attend a property viewing? We think the 'virtual first' approach is the best one: ask the seller and/or estate agent for more photos and a video tour. Even if not professionally done, a video recording of the space will give you a much better idea of what the home is like and whether you'd want to put in an offer. Arrange a physical viewing only if you're very keen on the property,
Read more:
Join our newsletter
Get the best home decor ideas, DIY advice and project inspiration straight to your inbox!
Anna is a professional writer with many years of experience. She has a passion for contemporary home decor and gardening. She covers a range of topics, from practical advice to interior and garden design.
-
Housing market forecast: home buyers are rushing to beat rising mortgage rates
The latest housing market forecast reveals a new factor in a hot market – steadily rising mortgage rates
By Anna Cottrell Published
-
Before & after: A broken-plan layout completes this Edwardian terrace
These happy bunnies have the best of both worlds. Divide and conquer
By Ellen Finch Published
-
This dark and dramatic house just oozes original charm
The color choices for this gorgeous Victorian home may seem bold, but just take a tour and you'll be reaching for the deep teal paint too...
By Ifeoluwa Adedeji Published
-
These are the items you’re most likely to lose when moving house - and one could be seriously costly
Don't miss these off your checklist come moving day
By Millie Hurst Published
-
A new survey reveals the one room we'd add to our home if money were no object
Because you can never have too many books
By Millie Hurst Last updated
-
This is what a dream home looks like in 2021 (Hint: there's a fire pit)
Get ready for the home office of dreams
By Millie Hurst Published
-
This HGTV 'Home Town' house is on the market for under $200k
See what this Laurel, MS. house from HGTV's Home Town looks like today (and make it yours for under $200,000)
By Grace Stetson Published
-
This sunbelt city is the top destination for homebuyers looking for value – and sun
Buyers on the move are choosing these Southern cities in what is beginning to be known as the Sunbelt Surge
By Anna Cottrell Published