Buyer and Seller FAQs during the Coronavirus lockdown
While trying to think about how best to serve our community, we know many people will have a lot of questions right now about what can continue and what can’t. While we don’t have all the answers, we can advise to the best of our ability on property related needs and transactions. We have compiled our most asked questions by buyers and sellers...
(If you’re a landlord or a tenant, watch this space – your FAQs will also be posted soon!)
Can I still get a mortgage?
Yes, you can. Simply contact The Mortgage Advice Bureau to see what offers are available to you. If you’re worried about your current mortgage, they have also set up a helpline to give you the best advice possible – no matter what your situation is. To speak to a qualified mortgage adviser via the helpline, homeowners should call 08000 350353.
Am I able to view a house I’m interested in?
Please contact our teams who are only an email or phone call away, we will complete remote viewings with customers where possible and will be able to give you as much information as possible about the property that you are interested in. There are always new video viewings going on our Facebook page so it may be worth keeping an eye out for one that you like!
I’ve just put an offer on a property – what happens now?
We will manage your offer with the seller of the property in the same way that we normally would. We will always keep you updated by phone and email. Please speak to us if you have any concerns, and we will be able to answer your questions and put your mind at rest.
Can I still use a removal service and complete my purchase now we’re in lockdown?
The current government guidelines are only to travel for necessities, medical reasons, exercise and essential work. We will work with you to schedule your moving date when the time is appropriate and you have access to the services that you need.
Should I put my property purchase on hold during this time?
We will progress your purchase in the same way that we normally would so there is no reason to put it on hold, we understand that these are uncertain times and we are here to support you, please contact your branch via email or phone so that we can help you.
My local branch is closed – are you still open for business?
We are open for business and are only an email or phone call away. For the health and wellbeing of our customers, colleagues and communities we will no longer operate a branch-based service but our teams are still ready to help you, whatever you need at this time.
How will you market my property at this time?
We will make sure that your property appears on all of the property portals. Your property will also appear on our website and on our social media. Remember that 90% of people start their house search online and with more people at home this may well increase. Once someone shows interest, we are offering video viewings so that people can still look around while remaining safe. We are still in contact by text, phone and email with our buyers and we still have new buyers registering with us. Whatever your requirements we will still tailor a marketing plan for you and your home.
Can you still progress my property sale? How will you do this?
We will progress your sale to exchange of contracts in the same way that we normally would. Our Conveyancing Team are working as normal and you can still speak to your Lawyer or Legal Advisor and us. As conditions change we may need to adapt your Completion date to ensure that we are complying with current government guidance on Social Distancing.
If the chain collapses in my sale due to the issues that we are facing, what will happen?
We are experts at progressing sales and managing chains and we will still proceed with your sale, liaising with all the key parties. These are uncertain times and we will support all customers and keep you updated. In the unfortunate event that your sale does fall through, we will work with you on a plan for your property and your circumstances.
Should I place my property sale on hold?
At present we are still seeing customers registering to buy houses with us and requesting viewings. With 90% of buyers house search starting online we would recommend keeping a digital presence during this period. We will of course work with you on a personal plan for your property.
Have a question that’s not on here? Please don’t hesitate to get in touch – by phone, email, the online chat, or through our social media. We’re still here to support our local community with all of their property needs and will ensure that maintain the high standard of service that has secured our reputation locally.