At Debbie Fortune Estate Agents, we’re delighted to welcome the government’s decision to consult on major reforms to the home buying and selling process in England and Wales. It’s something our industry has been calling for — and something we know our clients will welcome too.
Operations Director Jo Woolley said, “Buying or selling a home is such an important life event, and for many, it can be one of the most stressful experiences they face. We see every day how delays, uncertainty and last-minute changes can take the joy out of what should be an exciting time. Only this week we had a chain collapse the day before our elderly sellers were due to sign their contracts. Their sale was agreed in August and our sellers had boxed up most of their possessions in readiness for their move – only for their buyers to withdraw at the last moment due to a change in circumstances.”
It’s the worst part of our job having to give news like this and we often have clients in tears at the end of the phone in these situations. Reform is long overdue.”
The government’s consultation will explore ways to make home moving faster, more transparent, and less prone to fall-throughs — welcome news for everyone involved. Proposals such as improving upfront information, embracing digital solutions, and increasing trust between all parties are exactly the kind of practical, positive changes that we at Debbie Fortune Estate Agents fully support.
At Debbie Fortune Estate Agents, we pride ourselves on being proactive and thorough from the very start of every transaction. We chain-check every sale, complete all AML (Anti-Money Laundering) verifications, obtain proof of funds and identification, and never start the transaction until all essential information has been confirmed. Our dedicated Sales Progressor Stevie Worgan (pictured below) works tirelessly to keep every party informed, chase solicitors and lenders, and resolve issues before they escalate — ensuring the smoothest possible move for our clients; we understand how crucial good communication and confidence are in every transaction.
We also welcome the idea of all agents being held to the same high professional standards, with accountability and transparency at the heart of every transaction. Raising the bar across the board can only strengthen trust in our industry — and that benefits everyone, from buyers and sellers to agents and conveyancers alike.
We’ll be following the consultation closely and will continue to champion reforms that put people first and make the process smoother for buyers and sellers alike.
Change won’t happen overnight, but this is an important step in the right direction — and we’re ready to play our part.
