UK home buying reforms aim to reduce transaction failures

The UK government is proposing reforms to the home buying and selling processes in England and Wales to reduce transaction delays and failures. The roadmap focuses on providing upfront information, earlier legal commitment, and increased use of digital data tools to improve the consumer experience.

In anticipation of these reforms, industry providers are launching new services to mitigate transaction risks. Landmark Information Group has introduced Sales Pack Ready Surveys, which provide RICS-standard assessments of a property’s physical condition at the point of instruction. This aims to identify defects and maintenance concerns before a transaction is fully underway.

Similarly, digital conveyancing firm Eden Conveyancing has launched its Sale Ready service. This allows sellers to begin legal preparations at the time of listing, before an offer is even received. The service includes reports for estate agents to flag potential property issues early, aiming to reduce the frequency of deals falling through later in the process.