Midsomer Norton estate agency welcomes the re-opening of the housing market - but says safety of all must be paramount

Local estate agency Sam Chivers says they can't wait to get people moving again - but warn that it is early days.

On Wednesday (May 13) the government's decision to get the housing market re-opened left many companies working out just how they could re-start home viewings and open offices - safely.

Although the decision was welcomed by many home buyers and sellers - and several hundred thousand are believed to have been frozen unable to buy or sell - a vigorous market may take time.

The company said: " We have been heartened by the response from everyone who are still more motivated than ever to buy a property.

"It will be a confusing announcement for many, when the government are also encouraging households not to mix in order to contain the spread of the virus. However, their decision to get the economy moving again is a much needed positive message for all.

"We have been given very strict guidelines to adhere to when conducting viewings, especially on occupied properties and the message has been that the safety of all must remain paramount to the needs of business owners.

"We embrace this message and had already been working with our team to implement new ideas and ways to continue to get the housing market moving in the safest way possible for the foreseeable future."

The local solicitors Thatcher + Hallam has also welcomed the home market re-opening.

Hayley Wakefield is an experienced member of the Residential Property team at Thatcher + Hallam LLP. She knows the local property market

well. Hayley and her colleagues at the firm have all been working differently since the COVID-19 outbreak but nevertheless have remained open for business with new conveyancing instructions still being accepted.

" The news that estate agents are now allowed to open with viewings taking place again, subject to social distancing and safety, is clearly a boost to the sector," says Hayley. "As solicitors we are already not only geared up to re-boot the earlier sales and purchases that have been in hibernation, but we are also all set to accept brand new instructions as they come in."

Meanwhile at Sam Chivers they are encouraging virtual property tours and valuations being conducted where ever possible and making sure that agents take the time to speak to their potential buyers over the phone about the property, the area and available amenities before proceeding to put safe measures in place for face to face viewings.

"We are very lucky to have some incredible technology at our fingertips but for those unable to access this, we will also have to be adaptable and innovative.

"We will all have to adapt to a new way of buying and selling houses but we have had a very understanding and sensible response so far from all potential buyers and sellers.

"The message that we are sending out there is to be patient and you can be reassured that we will not take risks.

"This period of adjustment has changed many peoples perspectives and we are confident that we can continue to offer a high level of service and safety to both buyers and sellers whilst maintaining the message across the country to stay safe and look after each other.

The team added: " We are excited to be back doing what we love and helping people to move during what has been a very difficult and sad time for many. Lets get the country moving safely."