“Selling or Remortgaging? What You Need to Know About Spray Foam Insulation Before You List Your Home”

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Open House Estate Agents Staffordshire, Spray Foam Issues Vendors Face

As property experts at Open House Estate Agents Staffordshire, we understand how critical it is for homeowners to make informed choices about home improvements. If your property has spray foam insulation, you may face unique challenges when trying to sell or remortgage your home. Here’s what you need to know to navigate these issues confidently.

What is Spray Foam Insulation?

Spray foam insulation, a popular choice for roof, loft, and attic insulation, is designed to improve energy efficiency and reduce heating costs. This insulation type comes in two forms:

• Closed Cell Spray Foam: This type of insulation hardens into a rigid layer, providing excellent thermal resistance. However, it can trap moisture and restrict air circulation if improperly installed.

• Open Cell Spray Foam: Unlike closed cell, this type remains softer, allowing more breathability. However, if applied directly to certain roof materials, it may still trap moisture.

While spray foam insulation can reduce energy bills, improper installation or poor product choice may lead to complications with mortgage lenders.

Why Some Lenders Are Rejecting Properties with Spray Foam Insulation

Many mortgage lenders are now cautious with properties featuring spray foam insulation due to several factors:

1. Risk of Moisture Trapping: Improper installation can trap moisture, leading to potential roof timber decay.

2. Inspection Challenges: Spray foam can obscure roof structures, making it difficult for surveyors to assess potential risks accurately.

3. Installation Standards: Not all spray foam insulation meets necessary standards, particularly installations done under earlier government schemes like the Green Homes Grant.

Some lenders, including TSB, Skipton Building Society, and Aviva, may refuse mortgage applications on properties with spray foam insulation. Others, like Lloyds and Nationwide, may still lend but often require a specialized survey.

Tips for Homeowners with Spray Foam Insulation

If your property has spray foam insulation and you’re considering selling or remortgaging, here are some steps to make the process smoother:

1. Gather Documentation: Ensure you have all relevant installation documents, including certificates, warranties, and before-and-after photos.

2. Consider a Survey: Obtain an independent assessment from a qualified spray foam surveyor to reassure lenders and buyers about the insulation’s quality.

3. Check with Lenders: Consult potential mortgage lenders about their policies on spray foam insulation, as some may assess cases individually if proper documentation and inspection reports are available.

If you’re feeling uncertain, contacting a professional estate agent can make a significant difference. Here at Open House Estate Agents Staffordshire, we offer expert guidance tailored to your unique situation.

When It’s Time to Contact Open House Estate Agents Staffordshire

Whether you’re dealing with spray foam insulation or other property concerns, we’re here to help. Our team understands the local market and can connect you with resources to resolve property-related challenges. We’re here to support you in every step of selling, buying, or remortgaging a home.

Contact us today at Open House to learn more about selling your property with spray foam insulation or for any property-related inquiries. At Open House Estate Agents Staffordshire, we’re dedicated to providing straightforward solutions for homeowners.

Steve Lythgoe Open House Estate Agents

“Navigating the Mortgage Maze: Rising Rates and How They Impact You”

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Steve Lythgoe, Open House Estate Agents

With mortgage rates on the rise—averaging 5.5% for a two-year deal—even a recent base rate cut by the Bank of England hasn’t brought relief to borrowers. As major lenders like Barclays and HSBC increase rates on new fixed deals, potential homeowners face a more challenging path. Notably, hundreds of thousands with expiring fixed-rate deals and first-time buyers now grapple with decisions on affordability and timing in a fluctuating market.

Despite forecasts of gradual interest rate reductions, the journey for homebuyers remains unpredictable, given the increased costs and uncertainties influenced by economic policies and market reactions. Many lenders are adjusting rates based on future expectations, and with mortgage deals now having shorter lifespans, securing a favorable rate can feel like a race against the clock.

Adapting to Higher Mortgage Costs: Tips for Buyers and Sellers

For those renewing or planning their mortgage, flexibility is key. Making overpayments on existing low-rate mortgages, considering interest-only options, or extending mortgage terms to spread payments could ease financial pressures. For sellers, partnering with an experienced estate agent is vital. By understanding market dynamics, they can strategically position your property, highlight affordability, and connect you with serious buyers who may be more resilient in a high-rate market.

At Open House we specialize in guiding our clients through these complexities, whether you’re buying or selling. Our personal touch, deep market insight, and commitment to finding solutions ensure you make informed decisions during these times. Reach out to us for tailored advice on how we can help you navigate this challenging mortgage landscape and turn market shifts to your advantage.

Hot Property Market Alert: Buyers Snapping Up Homes in Just 20 Minutes!

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Rivermead, Weston Stafford

As we head into autumn, the property market is experiencing a significant boost in activity, with buyers making lightning-fast decisions. The housing market is buzzing, and surveyors predict a busy season ahead. If you’re in the market for a new home, here’s what you need to know about the latest trends and why you might need to act quickly.

Buyers Making Quick Moves

A recent survey by property portal Zoopla has revealed a surprising trend: one in five buyers are making offers after viewing homes for less than 20 minutes. Some are even deciding in under five minutes! The urgency is real, and the average viewing time is now just 49 minutes.

Why the rush? The competition is fierce, and buyers are eager to secure their dream homes before someone else does. This rapid decision-making highlights the current state of the market, where hesitation could mean missing out.

What’s Fueling the Market Surge?

Several key factors are driving this uptick in the housing market:1. Interest Rate Cuts: The Bank of England’s recent rate cut to 5%—the first in four years—has made mortgages more affordable, encouraging more buyers to take the plunge. 2. Government Initiatives: Promises of increased housebuilding have injected optimism into the market. These initiatives aim to address the supply shortage, though challenges remain. 3. Rising Buyer Demand: According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), expectations for increased sales are at their highest since early 2020. Improved economic conditions and favorable lending rates are driving more people to consider buying.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the positive outlook, buyers face significant challenges. While demand is soaring, the number of available homes hasn’t kept pace. This imbalance could lead to higher prices and more intense competition for properties.

Kevin Peachey, Cost of Living Correspondent, notes that although the interest rate cuts are a positive development, affordability is still a major issue. High property prices and limited supply make the market competitive.

Expert Tips for Buyers

In this fast-moving market, it’s crucial to be prepared. Daniel Copley, a consumer expert at Zoopla, advises buyers to take their time inspecting properties, even when under pressure. “Buying a home is the most expensive purchase most of us will ever make. So, it’s crucial to make every effort to inspect all elements, in order to save yourself time and money further down the line.”

The pandemic has also changed how some buyers approach the market, with virtual viewings becoming more common. While convenient, it’s essential to ensure thorough inspections to avoid future regrets.

The Road Ahead

The housing market is set for an exciting autumn, with lower interest rates, government support, and increased competition among lenders. For those looking to buy, now is the time to stay informed and be ready to act fast. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, moving up the ladder, or refinancing, the current market conditions offer both opportunities and challenges.

Don’t miss out on your dream home. Contact our experienced estate agents today to navigate this dynamic market and make informed decisions. We’re here to help you every step of the way in your home-buying journey.

“Revealing the Shocking Impact of Record-High Interest Rates: What Home Buyers and Sellers Must Know Now!”

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Discover how recent interest rate increases affect mortgage rates, property market trends, and your current mortgage. Stay informed about the Bank of England’s decisions and prepare for potential rate fluctuations. Read on for valuable insights from Open House Estate Agents Staffordshire.

Introduction:
In a recent move, the Bank of England (BoE) raised its Base Rate by 0.5%, marking the 13th consecutive increase and pushing interest rates to their highest level in 15 years. This article explores the implications of these interest rate rises for home buyers and sellers, providing valuable information and insights to help you navigate the current real estate landscape.

Impact on Mortgage Rates:
The Base Rate serves as a crucial factor for lenders when setting fixed-rate mortgages. As a result, average fixed-rate mortgage rates have been rising in anticipation of the Base Rate hike. Lenders base their rates on swap rates, reflecting the market’s expectations for future Base Rate levels. Open House’s mortgage expert, Matt Smith, highlights the significance of this development and encourages prospective buyers to stay informed about the latest mortgage rates.

Current Property Market Trends:
Real-time data reveals interesting trends in the property market. Open House has observed a surge in inquiries from individuals interested in viewing homes for sale, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Additionally, their Mortgage in Principle service has experienced a 53% increase in visits over the past month, indicating a growing number of individuals evaluating their borrowing capacity amidst rising interest rates. Matt Smith emphasizes the importance of reassessing personal affordability in light of higher rates, enabling buyers to adapt their budgets accordingly.

Understanding the Impact on Existing Mortgages:
Fluctuations in the Base Rate can affect the interest paid on loans, including mortgages. If you have a fixed-rate mortgage, your monthly payments will remain unchanged until the end of your deal. However, variable or tracker mortgage holders are likely to see an increase in their monthly payments. Open House advises homeowners to stay informed about their mortgage terms and be prepared for potential adjustments resulting from interest rate changes.

The Road Ahead: Potential Rate Fluctuations:
Experts suggest that the Base Rate may reach a peak of around 5.75% before it starts to decrease. The Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee convenes approximately every six weeks to deliberate on interest rate adjustments. The next decision will be announced on 3 August 2023, underscoring the need for home buyers and sellers to stay updated on developments that may impact their financial decisions.

Conclusion:
With interest rates at their highest level in over a decade, it is crucial for home buyers and sellers to understand the implications of recent rate hikes. Open House Estate Agents Staffordshire offers valuable insights into the relationship between interest rates and mortgage rates, market trends, and existing mortgage obligations. By staying informed and adaptable, you can make well-informed decisions that align with your financial goals. Remember to keep a close eye on the Bank of England’s decisions, as they play a pivotal role in shaping the future of interest rates.

Navigating the Impact of Rising Interest Rates and Inflation on UK Property Market

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Introduction:
As the Bank of England prepares to raise interest rates for the 13th consecutive time, the impact on the UK property market becomes a topic of concern for both buyers and sellers. In this blog post, we will explore the implications of rising interest rates and inflation on the property market, providing valuable insights to help individuals make informed decisions in this changing landscape.1. Understanding the Current Economic Landscape:

The Bank of England’s decision to raise interest rates reflects its ongoing effort to tackle rising prices and control inflation. With inflation at 8.7% in May, it is likely that the benchmark rate will increase from its current 4.5% level. This article explores the reasons behind the Bank’s decision to use interest rates as its primary tool for combating inflation.
2. Impact on Homeowners and Savers:
An increase in interest rates can have implications for homeowners and savers alike. While higher rates may lead to increased mortgage costs for homeowners, it may offer a silver lining for savers looking to earn more on their investments. This section delves into the potential consequences for these two groups and provides tips on navigating the changing financial landscape.
3. The Property Market Outlook:
With interest rates at their highest level in approximately 15 years, the property market is experiencing significant shifts. This section analyzes the impact of rising interest rates on the property market, discussing factors such as affordability, demand, and the potential for price stabilization. It also highlights the importance of considering long-term investment strategies in a changing interest rate environment.
4. Government Response and Policy Considerations:
The blog touches upon Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s commitment to combating inflation and the government’s responsibility to address the impact of rising rates on individuals with mortgages. It also mentions Labour’s stance on mortgage assistance. Understanding the government’s approach and potential policy changes can provide insights into future market dynamics.
5. Comparative Analysis:
This section compares the UK’s inflation situation with other countries such as the US and Germany, where inflation is falling. By understanding the global context, readers gain a broader perspective on the challenges faced by the UK and how it may impact the property market.

Conclusion:
As the Bank of England raises interest rates in response to rising inflation, the UK property market undergoes a period of adjustment. This blog post aimed to provide valuable insights to buyers and sellers, equipping them with knowledge to make informed decisions. By understanding the implications of rising interest rates and inflation on the property market, individuals can navigate this evolving landscape with confidence and adapt their strategies accordingly.

Navigating the Changing Tides: How Falling UK House Prices Can Benefit Homeowners

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In recent news, the Nationwide Building Society reported a significant decline in UK house prices, marking the fastest annual pace of decrease in nearly 14 years. With a 3.4% drop in prices in the year leading up to May, it’s evident that the housing market is facing challenges. This blog post aims to explore the implications of falling house prices on the real estate sector and provide insights into the potential effects on buyers, sellers, and the overall market.

The Current State of House Prices:
According to the Nationwide, the average property price now stands at £260,736, with a 0.1% decrease in May alone. Additionally, average prices remain 4% below their peak in August 2022. This decline may present opportunities for first-time buyers, who have struggled with climbing prices in recent years. However, rising interest rates and mortgage costs could pose challenges to those trying to enter the housing market.

Impact on First-Time Buyers:
The decrease in house prices might offer some relief to aspiring homeowners. However, the simultaneous rise in mortgage interest rates due to inflation concerns means that mortgage costs are higher than anticipated for many first-time buyers. This development could alter their plans and require adjustments to their budgets, potentially affecting their ability to enter the market.

Effects on Mortgage Debt and Approvals:
Recent figures from the Bank of England indicate a decline in mortgage debt borrowed, reaching its lowest level since the onset of the Covid pandemic. Furthermore, net mortgage approvals for house purchases have also seen a slight decrease. These trends suggest a potential slowdown in the housing market as buyers become more cautious and lenders exercise more prudence in granting approvals.

Inflation and Interest Rate Speculations:
The UK inflation rate remains a significant factor influencing the housing market. Analysts predict that the Bank of England may need to raise interest rates further, potentially reaching as high as 5.5%, to curb rising prices. This projection has led to an increase in mortgage interest rates by various lenders, impacting affordability and potentially dampening demand.

Future Outlook and Market Conditions:
Although headwinds in the housing market are expected to strengthen in the near term, the Nationwide’s chief economist, Robert Gardner, suggests that a dramatic downturn is not anticipated. Solid labour market conditions and relatively healthy household balance sheets offer some stability to the market. However, a decline in property sales has already been observed, signalling potential challenges ahead.

Conclusion:
The recent decline in UK house prices, combined with rising mortgage interest rates, poses both challenges and opportunities in the real estate market. First-time buyers may find some relief as prices become more attainable, but they need to consider the impact of higher mortgage costs. The overall market is likely to face decreased demand, lower sales, and potentially weaker prices. As the housing landscape evolves, buyers, sellers, and industry professionals must remain vigilant and adapt to the changing conditions to make informed decisions.

How Open House Estate Agents Staffordshire Can Help:
If you’re a homeowner navigating these shifting market dynamics, Open House Estate Agents Staffordshire, led by owner Steve Lythgoe, is here to provide expert advice and guidance. With our deep knowledge of the local market and extensive experience in real estate, we can assist you in making informed decisions that align with your goals. Whether you’re considering selling your property, looking for opportunities to invest, or seeking professional insights into the current market conditions, our team is dedicated to providing personalized support tailored to your specific needs.

Reach out to Open House Estate Agents Staffordshire today to schedule a consultation and discover how we can help you make the most of the evolving real estate landscape.

Please note that this blog post is based on the provided BBC Business article and is written for informational purposes. It is advisable to seek professional advice before making any significant decisions related to real estate investments or transactions.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-65774620

In House Complaints Procedure

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IN-HOUSE COMPLAINTS PROCEDURE

We are committed to providing a professional service to all our clients and customers.  When something goes wrong, we need you to tell us about it.  This will help us to improve our standards.

If you have a complaint, please put it in writing, including as much detail as possible.  We will then respond in line with the timeframes set out below (if you feel we have not sought to address your complaints within eight weeks, you may be able to refer your complaint to the Property Ombudsman to consider without our final viewpoint on the matter).

What will happen next?

  • We will send you a letter acknowledging receipt of your complaint within three working days of receiving it, enclosing a copy of this procedure.

  • We will then investigate your complaint. This will normally be dealt with by the office manager who will review your file and speak to the member of staff who dealt with you.  A formal written outcome of our investigation will be sent to you within 15 working days of sending the acknowledgement letter.

  • If, at this stage, you are still not satisfied, you should contact us again and we will arrange for a separate review to take place by a senior member of staff.

  • We will write to you within 15 working days of receiving your request for a review, confirming our final viewpoint on the matter.

The Property Ombudsman

Milford House

43-55 Milford Street

Salisbury

Wiltshire

SP1 2BP

01722 333 306

admin@tpos.co.uk

www.tpos.co.uk

Please note the following:

You will need to submit your complaint to The Property Ombudsman within 12 months of receiving our final viewpoint letter, including any evidence to support your case.

The Property Ombudsman requires that all complaints are addressed through this in-house complaint’s procedure, before being submitted for an independent review.

Client Protection Membership & Privacy & Cookies Policy

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Please click on link below to access our Client Money Protection Certificate

CMP MemberShip Certificate

 

Who we are

Open House Staffordshire (‘We’) are committed to protecting and respecting your privacy.

This privacy policy sets out the basis on how we process and protect any information that you give, or we collect, when you use this website. Please read the following carefully to understand our views and practices regarding your personal data and how we will treat it.

Our nominated data controller is Steve Lythgoe Managing Director. Open House Staffordshire ( S A Lythgoe Property Services Limited trading as Open House Staffordshire) of 113 Wolverhampton Rd, Stafford, ST17 4AH.

What information may we collect about you?

We may collect personal data about you in the course of our work. That may include things like:

  • Your contact details.
  • Your date of birth.
  • Where you work.
  • Your wishes and criteria in any transaction you are considering.
  • Financial information, for example about your income and capital resources.

Usually we will have received this directly from you. However we may also receive personal data about you from others, such as from the other party to a transaction you are engaged in or from joint agents. Family members also sometimes provide information about each other.

How will we use the information?

Our use of such personal data is subject to data protection law.

We mainly use your personal data to provide you with information or services you have requested. We may also use it for any other purpose for which you give your consent. For example we may send you additional information about the firm or its services, if you have consented to us doing so.

We may also use it for other normal purposes connected with our work. For example we will use your information to update our own business records, complete statutory returns, and otherwise comply with our regulatory obligations.

Will we share information about you with anyone?

We take your privacy seriously. We will never sell your personal data to anyone, and we take precautions to keep it secure.

It will sometimes be a normal and necessary part of our work to pass on information to third parties. For example:

  • We may pass on information about you to solicitors to help them proceed with a transaction in which you are involved.
  • If you are a prospective tenant, we may pass on references about you to the landlord.
  • We may inform utility companies of changes in the occupiers of property.
  • We may pass on information to maintenance and repair contractors, in respect of property where we have responsibilities.
  • We may need to pass on information to those who help collect outstanding accounts.

In addition our practice may be audited or checked by third parties such as our accountants, which may enable them to see some information about you. Such third parties are required to maintain confidentiality in relation to your information.

Your rights

You have a right of access under data protection law to the personal data that we hold about you. We seek to keep that personal data correct and up to date. You should let us know if you believe the information we hold about you needs to be corrected or updated.

What data breach procedures we have in place

In the event of a personal data breach we will notify the ICO within the required 72 hours and provide them with

  • a description of the nature of the personal data breach including, where possible:
    • the categories and approximate number of individuals concerned; and
    • the categories and approximate number of personal data records concerned;
  • the name and contact details of the data protection officer
  • a description of the likely consequences of the personal data breach; and
  • a description of the measures taken, or proposed to be taken, to deal with the personal data breach, including, where appropriate, the measures taken to mitigate any possible adverse effects.

Cookies Poilicy

Our values mean it is important to us that we are open about our use of cookies on https://openhousestaffordshire.co.uk

Cookies Introduction

In accordance with the EU law on Cookies we are committed to cookie compliance and provide the following advice to enable you to manage the use of cookies.

This website uses cookies, as almost all websites do, to help provide you with the best experience we can. Cookies are small text files that contain information sent from a web server, and then stored by your web browser on your computer’s hard drive or mobile device and used when you browse our website or access our free blog content. They enable our site to identify your web browser but do not contain personal information such as your name or other personal details.

They help us to improve our site and deliver a better experience for our users. Some of the cookies that we use are essential for the site to operate.

We do not use cookies to:

  • Collect any personal identifiable information (without your express permission)
  • Collect any sensitive information (without your express permission)
  • Pass data to advertising networks
  • Pass personally identifiable data to third parties
  • Pay sales commissions

Our Cookies help:

  • Effectively administer our website
  • Improve the user experience
  • Remember your settings during and between visits
  • Improve the security/speed of the site
  • Aggregate information about the usage and effectiveness of our site
  • Allow you to share pages with social networks

You can learn more about all the cookies we use below.

Allowing us to use cookies

If the settings on your software that you are using to view this website (your browser) are adjusted to accept cookies we take this, and your continued use of our website, as your consent to accept our use of cookies. Should you not consent then we provide information on how to remove cookies below, however doing so will likely mean that you may not be able to access all, or parts of our site.

We use traffic log cookies on our website and blog to identify which pages are being used. This helps us analyse data about web page traffic and improve our website to be more user friendly. We only use this information for statistical analysis purposes and then the data is removed from the system.

Our own cookies

We use cookies to make our website work in the following ways, and all are used to improve the user experience:

  • Allowing you to add comments to our site
  • Contact form validation to prevent spam emails being sent
  • Tracking anonymous visits to website for statistical purposes

Social website cookies

These are used to help you ‘share’ or ‘like’ content on our website on various social media websites, as we have added sharing buttons on our site.

Turning Cookies Off

Most modern browsers allow you to control your cookie settings. You can disable them completely by editing your browser settings, however in doing this you may be limiting the functionality that is displayed on our website and also a large population of websites on the Internet that use cookies to serve their content.

To learn how to disable cookies on browsers please click here. http://support.google.com/accounts/bin/answer.py?hl=en&answer=61416

If you are concerned about cookies tracking your movements on the Internet then you may be concerned about spyware. Spyware is the name given to a particular band of cookies that track personal information about you. There are many antispyware programs that you can use to prevent this from happening. Learn more about antispyware software – http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spyware

Cookie Check

Our website uses a cookie to display our “Cookie Notice” at the top of the page. In order for us to remember that a user has agreed and wishes to close that notice we store an anonymous cookie that removes that notice for a period of 7 days. If you do not wish this cookie to be stored then you can choose not to close the notice.

Contact Forms (Captcha)

Our website uses a session cookie to provide users with a contact form validation service known as captcha. This cookie does not store any personal information about you and is only used to check the captcha form field to verify that a human being has entered the information.

Google Analytics

We use Google Analytics to analyse the use of this website. Google Analytics uses cookies to generate anonymous statistical and other information about website use. The information generated relating to our website is used to create reports about the use of the website. Google will store this information. Google’s privacy policy is available at: http://www.google.com/privacypolicy.html

Google Maps

We use Google Maps to give users the opportunity of visiting our business location. Google Maps only uses cookies to enable you to use the functionality of their map software. No personal information is stored on our website through the use of Google Maps.

Happy to Accept?

Please accept via the on screen Cookie Policy Option.

COVID 19 Viewing Safely

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During the second lockdown the government have allowed the housing market to carry on as normal. This is due to the hard work all agents across the country have made ensuring their premises and practises are as safe as possible. Here at Open House all our vendors and viewers are asked to read and follow these guidelines on this Risk Assessment.

Open House Safety Risk Assessment


Our precautions to help reduce the risk of transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19) and help keep everyone safe
On 13th May 2020, the government amended the coronavirus (COVID-19) regulations to make clear that people who wish to move home
can do so provided social distancing is adhered to. This guidance provides important public health information to ensure that moving home
and key activities around this, such as viewings, can happen safely.
Based on the government guidance, we have formulated our own risk assessment to keep our employees and clients safe when conducting
viewings. We hope that the guidance below provides assurances that Open House are ready to resume estate agency activity safely and
with minimal risks to all parties concerned. We would like to stress that we are as motivated as ever to sell your property, but this needs to
be balanced with the increased risks presented by coronavirus.
All visits to your property by our agents and prospective buyers must be carried out in whilst observing social distancing in line with public
health advice. The simplest steps you can take when looking to move home is to wash your hands frequently and wherever possible stay at
least two metres apart from people who are not members of your household.

Virtual Viewings
We recommend the use of virtual viewings before sending people to out to your property. This will minimise public health risks and will
ensure physical viewings are only conducted where prospective buyers are seriously considering making an offer on a property. If we have
yet to arrange a virtual viewing of your property and you would like us to do so, please let us know.

Physical Viewings
Before viewings
• Before booking a physical viewing, we will ask you whether any members of the household are showing symptoms of
coronavirus or are self-isolating. If you answer yes, a physical viewing will not be booked.
• In addition to checking whether you are showing symptoms of coronavirus or are self-isolating, we will also ask whether
there are any occupiers who are classed as clinically vulnerable (e.g. over 70). If you answer yes, viewings can still be booked
in this instance, but you (or the vulnerable household member) will need to carefully consider your personal situation and the
circumstances and may wish to seek medical advice before deciding whether to proceed.
• If our agent is due to attend the viewing and develops symptoms of coronavirus between booking the appointment and the
day it is due to take place, we will contact you to postpone the appointment giving as much notice as possible.
• We will ask all prospective buyers whether any members of their household are showing symptoms of coronavirus or are self isolating.
If they answer yes, a physical viewing will not be booked.
• We will keep viewings as short as possible. Most properties should be able to be viewed sufficiently within 15-20 minutes.
If you are conducting the viewing yourself, we will advise prospective buyers beforehand that the viewing must not be
unnecessarily prolonged.
• If a property is not large enough, or there are any other logistical issues which mean a viewing cannot be conducted whilst
adhering to social distancing measures, we will not book a viewing at the property.
• Before the viewing, we would ask that you prepare by:
– Opening all internal doors to minimise contact with door handles.
– Ensuring all surfaces at the property and any other highly touched items have been wiped down.
– Opening all windows when possible to ensure good ventilation at the property is maintained.
• If the viewing is to take place at an unoccupied property, our agent will use standard household cleaning wipes on all
door handles within the property.

Working Safely
• If our agent is due to attend, they may opt to wear a face mask/covering and gloves as a precautionary measure. If you would
like to insist that our agent wears any PPE for added reassurance, please let us know before the viewing. If you are conducting
the viewing yourself and wish to wear a face covering but don’t currently have one, these can be made at home and advice
on how to do this and use them safely can be found on the GOV.UK website (https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/
how-to-wear-and-make-a-cloth-face-covering).
• We will restrict the number of people who attend the viewing so social distancing can be practised. A maximum of two
people from the same household will be permitted to attend your property for a viewing.
During viewings (agent accompanied)
• Our agent will either walk to the property or use their own transport. We will ask all prospective buyers not to use public
transport to travel to the property.
• When arriving at an occupied property, our agent will knock on the door and step back two metres (about three steps) so
that when you open the door, social distancing is adhered to.
• Our agent will introduce themselves as they normally would but will not shake hands upon entering or leaving the property.
• Our agent will wash their hands with soap and water (or hand sanitiser if this is not possible) immediately after entering.
Where possible, you should allow access to handwashing facilities and ideally separate towels/paper towels.
• Due to social distancing we encourage that you wait outside the property (e.g. in the garden) whilst the viewing is taking
place. If this is not possible, we would ask that you maintain social distancing by keeping to one room and moving to another
room when required. Our agent will be required to stay at least two metres from all members of your household and any
prospective buyer at all times.
• If our agent needs to sneeze or cough during the visit to your property, they will always look to cough or sneeze into a tissue,
or their sleeve, and dispose of the tissue as soon as possible and then re-wash their hands, either with soap and water or their
own sanitiser. We will ask all prospective buyers to do the same.
• Our agent will not share pens, paper, or any other objects during the appointment with anyone in attendance.
• Our agent will avoid touching surfaces where possible and will bring their own hand sanitiser and we will ask prospective
buyers to do the same.

During viewing (unaccompanied)
• We will ask all prospective buyers not to use public transport to travel to the property.
• We will ask all prospective buyers to knock on the door upon arrival and step back two metres (about three steps) so that
when you open the door, social distancing is adhered too.
• Under no circumstances should you shake hands with people viewing. We will advise all people viewing not to attempt to
shake hands upon entering or leaving the property.
• We will ask all people viewing to wash their hands with soap and water (or hand sanitiser if this is not possible) immediately
after entering. Where possible, you should allow access to handwashing facilities and ideally separate towels/paper towels.
• Only one person from your household should be present to show the prospective buyer round the property. Due to social
distancing we encourage all other household members to wait outside the property (e.g. in the garden) whilst the internal
inspection is taking place. If this is not possible, we would ask that they maintain social distancing by keeping to one room
and moving to another room when required. All members of your household including the person showing them around will
be required to stay at least two metres from any the prospective buyer at all times.
• We will ask prospective buyers to cough or sneeze into a tissue, or their sleeve, if they need to do so, and dispose of the tissue
as soon as possible and then re-wash their hands, either with soap and water or their own sanitiser.
• We will ask prospective buyers to avoid touching surfaces where possible and bring their own hand sanitiser.

After the viewing
• We will not hold feedback discussions with the prospective buyer inside the property at the end of the viewing. This will
either be conducted outside the property, maintaining social distancing, or through a follow up call.
• Once the viewing has taken place, the homeowner should ensure surfaces, such as door handles, are cleaned with standard
household cleaning products and towels disposed of safely or washed as appropriate.
• Our agent will remove any wipes, tissues etc which they have personally used during the appointment and dispose of them
as appropriate. We will also ask any prospective buyers to do the same.
• If we have been issued keys to conduct a viewing on an unoccupied property and they are due to be returned to you, we will
make sure they are appropriately cleaned before handover.

 

 

 

Recently Sold Properties

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Open House Estate Agents Cannock are a local estate agent available 24/7, we approach house selling a little differently. We provide professional photographs, video tour, 360 virtual tour and floor plan as standard.

Fees from £698 or pay £998 no sale no fee

We have a presence on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube & we use the latest technology to place your home in front of buyers.

We offer a more personal touch, you will deal with one person throughout the process, who will be available and responsive.

Call 01543 327873 or schedule a free advice meeting below