From Toby, Carol and the team at Walter & Mair
Although the UK has gone into lockdown once again, the property industry remains open.
This means that we can conduct viewings and help people to carry out their moving plans. For the viewings we will be conducting during the lockdown period, our priority is to make sure our clients, our buyers and our team are safe.
Safe viewings: Since the housing market re-opened in May last year, we have been conducting safe viewings, and will continue to do so. This includes conducting a zoom appointment virtual viewing in the first instance with potential buyers – if a viewer would like to then view a home in person our measures include both viewers and our team members wearing masks and gloves/or hand sanitising, making sure viewings are ‘contactless’ and restricting viewings to only those buyers who are in a position to make an offer, ie not speculative viewers.
Safe valuations: We are still able to offer valuation/advice appointments to homeowners looking to move, following the same safety guidelines. If you need a valuation but would prefer this to be done remotely, we can also offer advice via video. Just call us on 020 8660 6674 or email us at toby@walterandmair.co.uk and we will arrange this for you.
Moving house safely: Whilst people are still able to move home during this new lockdown period, the Government has stated that ‘people outside your household or support bubble should not help with the move unless absolutely necessary.’ Further information Public Health England and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government continue to work closely with the National Association of Estate Agents Propertymark, so that our industry is safe for everyone.
Estate agents, conveyancers, surveyors and removal firms are all required to work in accordance with Government guidelines, and as the situation changes, we will provide further updates on an ongoing basis.
How you can help us, to help you: If you’re selling your home with us right now, it’s important to be viewing-ready. To make sure your home is safe to view, and reassure viewers, all surfaces need to be sparkling clean, using a bleach-based cleaner where possible and appropriate. A home that smells freshly cleaned will help a buyer to relax, so they can better focus on the features of your home.
Not sure whether to sell right now?
Talk to us: Whatever your moving plans were before this latest lockdown, they may well have changed now. If you were planning on moving home, and you’re now reconsidering, a chat with us may help to clarify your options. On the other hand, if you have recently decided you need to move house because your circumstances have now changed, let’s chat as soon as possible, so we can help you to put a moving plan together.
Whatever your plans, we’re here to help. A chat with us now may reassure you and help you make an informed decision for you and your family. Just call on 020 8660 6674 or email on toby@walterandmair.co.uk and we’ll respond quickly and in confidence.
We know this is a really tough time for everyone. If you, or anyone you know, need to talk to someone, here are some useful numbers:
Mind charity – 0300 123 3393
Samaritans 116 123
ISPCC Childline 0800 11 11
Age UK 0800 678 1602
The CALM zone 0800 585 858
Women’s Aid 0808 200 0247
Let’s all hope this is the final stretch.
Stay safe,
Toby, Carol and all the team at Walter & Mair
