Home information Packs are not hampering the property market is the message that emerges loud and clear from the results of research conducted by national estate agents, Connells. Figures released show a 9% increase in the number of new valuations carried out on residential property in January 2010, compared to January 2009.
In fact this is the fifth time in a row that monthly valuations activity has exceeded that of the same month the year before. This news must come as a bitter blow to Grant Shapps policy stance on home information packs as it clearly undermines his repeated assertions of late that the cost of the HIP is deterring the home owner from taking steps to enter the property market. The argument with its origin in misguided political rhetoric has always lacked credibility and is now hopefully one that will finally be put to rest.
Is it not now time for the Conservative Party to admit defeat and begin to look at ways to impress the electorate with some positive and progressive policy?
It comes as no surprise to anyone who has sold properties prior to the introduction of HIP packs.
ReplyDeleteI can personally well remember that on deciding to sell and approaching my chosen solicitor to be asked for a cheque payment of £200.00 plus pounds for 'disperments' .
The Hip pack has now taken this charge by solicitors away, therefore replacing one with another.
It has had no effect on the fee levels charged by solicitors and maybe Mr. Shapps efforts should be directed to reducing those fees or producing a better system for conveyancing.