Property searches the real barometer of the UK housing sector

It’s great news that estate agents are reporting record numbers of enquiries for viewings and interest, but the real barometer of the upturn is when a solicitor is instructed on a property purchase and searches are requested.

A month after the UK housing sector started to reawaken post lockdown, property search firm X-Press Legal Services, South & West Yorkshire, has seen a sharp rise in the number of searches undertaken by conveyancing firms – over 50% - suggesting that consumer confidence in moving home has returned.

Helen Foster, Director said: “Based on search report orders we’ve received across our network, we have seen an increase of 50% month on month which shows that home buyers have definitely bounced back with confidence.

“We know from feedback from our conveyancing clients that there are also a high number of first-time buyers keen to fly the nest of mum and dad after lockdown. Young couples who have been separated during lockdown are now looking to get their first step on to the property ladder. The UK housing market is lucky that it hasn’t been so badly hit by this pandemic compared to other industries, and we’re keen for this to continue as we emerge from lockdown.”

X-Press Legal Services, South & West Yorkshire has also moved business premises post lockdown and is now located at Britannia Buildings in Briggate.

The search firm’s 27 local office network across England and Wales has continued to innovate its offering during the Covid-19 crisis. With the introduction of additional online facilities including new insurance and security features to enhance its suite of digital data services.