Lockdown restrictions were introduced on 23 March and the Government says that more than 450,000 people have been unable to progress their plans to move house.
All buyers and renters will now be able to complete purchases and view properties in person, while estate agents, conveyancers and removals firms can return to work while following social distancing guidelines.
Housing secretary Robert Jenrick commented: “I am announcing new guidelines to allow the housing market to resume. Our clear plan will enable people to move home safely, covering each aspect of the sales and letting process from viewings to removals.
“Our step by step plan is based on the latest guidance to ensure the safety and protection of everyone involved. This critical industry can now safely move forward, and those waiting patiently to move can now do so.”
The unlocking of the housing market has been widely welcomed. Rob Houghton, CEO of reallymoving, said: “For those close to exchange or completion it has been a particularly stressful time, but now the Government has given the green light for the housing market to reopen I expect to see a flurry of completions over the next few weeks.
“Before the crisis hit we were experiencing the strongest spring market for several years and while some of this demand will have melted away, our research suggests a large proportion of buyers are keener than ever to press ahead with their home move.
“A survey of movers we carried out in the middle of April showed that the three quarters remain resolute about proceeding at the earliest opportunity.
“While estate agents, surveyors, conveyancing solicitors and removals firms are eager to see the market return to normal, it will take time to adjust to new practises and ways of working.
“It’s vital that everyone involved in the buying and selling of property strictly observes Government guidance on social distancing in order to help ensure the market can remain open long-term and that Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are soon able to follow.”
