Can I move house during the pandemic?

Posted on October 30, 2020

When lockdown hit back in March, countless property buyers and sellers were left disappointed after being told to delay moving due to the emergency stay at home measures introduced. Whilst the nationwide lockdown seems a distant memory, the tightening restrictions in recent weeks has put doubts in the minds of many would-be house movers once again. But are these doubts justified or should you forge ahead with your move to pastures new?

As a leading estate agency, our property experts have helped buyers, sellers, tenants and landlords adjust to a new normal post-lockdown. In this blog post, we answer a question that’s certain to be on every property buyer or seller’s lips – can I still find a property, purchase a new home and move house during the pandemic?

Finding your perfect pad

With many estate agencies and conveyancers back to business in some capacity in recent months, finding your perfect pad is most certainly on the cards. Whether you’re looking to downsize or upgrade your home, your property search should remain unaffected even with the government recommended measures that are currently in place within the industry.

Viewings can be undertaken virtually if needs be, whilst those wishing to view in person or visit an agent’s office to enquire about properties that are currently on the market, should observe social distancing and wear a suitable face covering.

When viewing a property in person, government guidance recommends that members from no more than two households be in the property at the same time, this includes the estate agent showing you around. You are however welcome to bring along individuals that are apart of your support bubble as these will count as part of your household. Open house viewings are not permitted at this time.

Those viewing should also avoid touching surfaces within the property and wash their hands on a regular basis.

Selling your property?

If you’re currently selling your property as well as buying, you’ll have other measures to contend with. Whilst prospective buyers are viewing your home, it’s recommended that you vacate the property to minimise contact.

Preparing your home for viewing also requires extra steps. The government suggests that you open all internal doors to minimise unnecessary contact with surfaces, and clean in-between viewings – paying particular attention to door handles – to keep yourself and others safe.

Moving – the Covid-secure way

Whether you’re buying, selling or both, your goal is to move properties, and this can be undertaken in a Covid-secure way too.

Try to complete most of the packing yourself. Those using removal companies should liaise with them well in advance to enquire about what they’re doing to limit the risk of infection and any restrictions that may apply to your move. Social distancing rules must of course be adhered to at all times.

Ready to make your house move dreams a reality, even during this difficult time? We can help. Contact us today by calling 0191 510 9950 or emailing enquiries@hackettproperty.com.