HOMEBUYING CHANGES: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

If you’ve ever bought or sold a home, you’ll know it can be a process filled with excitement, but also its fair share of frustration. Delays, unexpected issues and uncertainty can often take the shine off what should be a positive milestone.

That’s why the Government’s recently announced plans to modernise the homebuying process are likely to be welcomed by many. The proposals aim to make transactions faster, more transparent and less prone to falling through.

While still at consultation stage, the changes could go some way towards addressing the challenges we see regularly in the market.
 

What’s being proposed?

More information, earlier in the process

A key part of the reforms is the idea that more property information should be available before a home is even listed for sale.

This may include title details, boundaries, rights of way and any restrictions affecting the property. Having this information upfront should help buyers make more informed decisions and reduce the likelihood of issues emerging later in the transaction.

For sellers, it could also mean fewer surprises and a smoother path through to completion.
 

Reducing fall-throughs

Anyone who has experienced a sale falling through after weeks or months of progress will understand just how frustrating and costly that can be.

The proposals look at ways to encourage greater commitment from both buyers and sellers earlier in the process. While the detail still needs to be worked through, the aim is clear: to reduce the number of transactions that fail after an offer has been agreed.
 

A more digital approach

Another focus is improving the use of digital technology across the homebuying journey.

Streamlining paperwork and improving the way information is shared between all parties could help speed up transactions and reduce duplication, making the process more efficient overall.
 

Nick Bonfield’s view

Nick Bonfield, Senior Valuer at Bentons, shares his view:

"Anyone who has bought or sold a property will understand how frustrating delays and uncertainty can be. Providing more information upfront is a positive step that could help buyers make more informed decisions and reduce issues arising later in the process.

The proposals around earlier commitment from both buyers and sellers could also provide greater certainty and help tackle the number of transactions that fail to complete.

While there is still work to be done before any changes are implemented, the overall direction of travel is encouraging. Greater transparency and better use of technology should benefit everyone involved in the moving process."

Looking ahead

Although these proposals are not yet law, they represent a clear intention to improve how people experience the homebuying process.

At Bentons, we know that moving home is about far more than paperwork - it’s about people, plans and what comes next. Anything that helps reduce stress and uncertainty along the way is a step in the right direction.

We’ll continue to follow developments closely and share updates as they happen. In the meantime, if you’re considering a move and would like advice on the current market, our team is always here to help.