“Delay the moves” says UK government
The UK government has asked tenants and buyers to delay their move plans for not less than three months. All this as part of the new guide of recommendations to combat the Coronavirus pandemic.
Besides, real estate agents, surveyors, and contractors also received guidance detailing how to help people who want to buy, sell, or repair their properties during this crisis period. Although it is not necessary to completely withdraw from real estate transactions, it is advisable to stay at home and avoid any unnecessary risks.
According to the document published by the UK government, as long as the property you want to move to is empty, it is possible to complete the move-in process. While if the property is still occupied, it is necessary to delay and schedule a new date in which there is no longer any risk of contagion.
The government warned that if sellers had not yet put their home up for sale before these measures took effect, they were prohibited from traditionally selling their property, that is, by inviting potential buyers to visit their home.
We all must follow these measures
Law Society President, Simon Davis said: “We are grateful to the government for their advice; they provide us with the guidance we need in these difficult times.”
“It is not recommended to carry out any transaction at the moment, or to sell or buy, even moving would be a reckless act. It is best to wait for the pandemic to end.”
“The members of the law society have offered to guide all those who have doubts about this new measure; we will seek to answer all their doubts regarding contracts during this crisis period.”
“We are in an extraordinary situation that has taken us by surprise, however, we must comply with social distancing measures and do our part to avoid a greater number of infected.”
Davis clarified that real estate agents should offer advice to their clients on how to proceed without violating the new social distancing measures. He also reiterated that personal visits to properties should not be scheduled, but that real estate agents can work from their homes.
Sales can continue as long as the measures are met
The UK government said property sales can continue as long as they do not breach any of the social distancing measures. Otherwise, they must be postponed for three months, unless the situation is considered an emergency.
In the case of conveyancers, they must advise their clients to choose vacant properties, if these properties are occupied; the move must be made when the pandemic alert ends.
Surveyors should not carry out any non-urgent surveys, and should not carry out any type of inspection in places where there is suspicion of infection. They must implement alternatives that do not put their health or that of their clients at risk, for example, online surveys.
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