What does tier 3 mean for the property market?
The government has been clear that the property market is staying open even as restrictions are toughened, and during the latest national lockdown moving services continued but with Covid-secure measures in place.
However, the government has called for flexibility among movers and sellers under the tightest coronavirus measures, should plans have to change due to any of the households involved contracting or being exposed to Covid-19.
Can I view properties in a tier 3 area?
Yes.
In-person viewings are still allowed under the highest Covid-19 tier.
However, some estate agents, sellers and buyers may decide to postpone viewings while restrictions are in place.
That said, renewed lockdown measures may also heighten people’s desire to move if they are unhappy with their current accommodation.
Virtual viewings can continue to take place and are likely to be offered by estate agents in the first instance so that any in-person viewings are given to the most interested prospective buyers.
As in the lower tiers, Covid-secure measures should be firmly in place during in-person viewings.
Such measures include the wearing of face coverings, regular hand washing, keeping doors and windows open for good ventilation during the viewing, and only two prospective buyers from the same household entering the property at a time.
Sellers and the estate agent may choose to wait outside the property or decide not to be present while viewings are undertaken.
Open house viewings are not allowed under tier three or any of the lower tiers.
If any member of either the household whose home is being viewed, or the household viewing, shows symptoms of Covid-19 or is self-isolating, then an in-person viewing should be delayed.
Are estate agents in tier 3 open?
Yes.
However, as with tiers one and two, the toughened tier system means people are being encouraged to work from home when possible.
This might mean some agents choose to work from home, continuing to work digitally and remaining open at branch-level by appointment only.
Can I move to a new house under tier 3?
Yes.
Estate and lettings agents, removals, valuers and people in sales and lettings offices and show homes can continue working under the tiered system.
Meeting with people outside your household or bubble “to facilitate moving home” is listed as one of the government’s exemptions from gatherings limits across all tiers.
