On behalf of everyone at Barbers, we hope you are safe and well. We wanted to provide you with an update on what we’re doing and to also answer some questions that might be on your mind about the property you are buying or selling.
The majority of our staff are furloughed; however, the Management Team are working from home, answering calls and communicating by email to keep the business operating remotely. We are taking enquiries from prospective purchasers who want to arrange viewings once the lockdown has ended.
We are unable to conduct face-to-face appointments of any description at the moment and any property that is currently sold subject to contract is still being progressing albeit possibly slower, as surveyors are not working, mortgage lenders are short-staffed and searches are not being carried out as the majority are observing the rules of social distancing and movement of people.
From our perspective the market is currently “paused”, very few new sales are being generated due to not being able to view; very few sellers are withdrawing from the market and current buyers are certainly waiting patiently for normality to resume.
In the meantime, we would advise that everyone takes the time to read the government guidelines on home moving and also monitors our website for further updates.
Government Guidelines - https://www.gov.uk/guidance/government-advice-on-home-moving-during-the-coronavirus-covid-19-outbreak
Barbers Website - https://www.barbers-online.co.uk/about-us/news-and-events/
Here are some of the more commonly asked questions which we’ve had recently. Please bear in mind that the situation is constantly changing, so it’s always better to call us if you have further queries.
Q – I am currently purchasing a property, will that still continue?
A – Yes. Please keep in contact with us, as we are in touch with all of our solicitors.
Q – I have made an offer on a property, my mortgage valuation hasn’t gone ahead yet, what will happen?
A – The large majority of valuations have been postponed for obvious reasons but some mortgage lenders will conduct a desk top valuation where no internal inspection is required but this will depend on lending criteria.
Q – Are any removal companies still working?
A – The British Association of Removers told their members to cease removals, however local firms and van hire companies may still be operating.
Q – What can my solicitor do whilst we are on lockdown?
A – We understand most legal firms are working in some capacity, although some with reduced staff. Solicitors are pushing for exchange where appropriate.
Q – The property I am selling is empty and I am paying the mortgage still. Is there anything I can do?
A – Our colleagues at Mortgage Advice Bureau have set up a new, dedicated Mortgage Information Support Line to help homeowners who are worried about their finances as a result of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. To speak to a qualified mortgage adviser via the helpline, homeowners should call 0800 368 9283.
Q – What are property prices likely to do?
A – We don’t know, however the first ten weeks of the year the market was incredibly buoyant, so there is great optimism that after this pause in the market activity will resume and prices will remain unchanged. This will depend on confidence and the overall economy.
If you have any further questions please contact our offices:
Market Drayton – 01630 653641
Newport – 01952 820239
Wellington/Telford – 01952 221200
Whitchurch – 01948 667272
Shrewsbury – 01743 276200
Stay safe and best wishes from us all at Barbers.
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