Sunday, March 1, 2026

Hundreds of millions in estate agent fees lost to failed property sales

The process of buying or selling a home is often considered one of the most stressful and time-consuming experiences in a person’s life. From finding the right property to navigating through legal and financial processes, the home-moving process can be overwhelming and uncertain. However, with the rise of technology and changing consumer expectations, it is time for reforms to improve the speed, transparency, and certainty of the home-moving process.

Firstly, the speed of the home-moving process is a major concern for both buyers and sellers. In today’s fast-paced world, people expect things to happen quickly and efficiently. However, the traditional home-moving process can take months, if not years, to complete. This can be frustrating for those who are eager to move into their dream home or for those who need to sell their property quickly. Reforms are needed to streamline the process and make it more time-efficient.

One way to improve the speed of the home-moving process is by embracing technology. Online platforms and tools can help buyers and sellers to search for properties, schedule viewings, and even complete legal and financial processes. This eliminates the need for multiple face-to-face meetings and allows for a more streamlined and efficient process. Additionally, the use of electronic signatures can speed up the signing of contracts and reduce the need for physical paperwork.

Another factor that can significantly improve the speed of the home-moving process is the involvement of professionals such as real estate agents, lawyers, and mortgage brokers. These professionals have the knowledge and expertise to guide buyers and sellers through the process and ensure that everything is done in a timely manner. However, it is essential to have a transparent and standardized system in place to regulate the fees and services provided by these professionals. This will not only improve the speed of the process but also increase the trust and confidence of buyers and sellers.

Transparency is another crucial aspect that needs to be addressed in the home-moving process. Many buyers and sellers feel that the current system lacks transparency, leading to confusion and mistrust. For instance, the lack of transparency in the pricing of properties can make it challenging for buyers to determine if they are getting a fair deal. Similarly, hidden fees and charges can catch sellers off guard and affect their budget. Reforms are necessary to ensure that all parties involved have a clear understanding of the process and are aware of all costs and fees involved.

One way to improve transparency is by implementing a standardized system for property valuations. Currently, property valuations can vary significantly, depending on the appraiser’s expertise and the method used. A standardized system will ensure that all properties are valued fairly and accurately, providing buyers and sellers with a clear understanding of the property’s worth. This will also reduce the chances of overpricing or underpricing, leading to a more transparent and efficient process.

Moreover, the use of technology can also enhance transparency in the home-moving process. Online platforms and tools can provide buyers and sellers with real-time updates on the status of their transaction, eliminating the need for constant communication with multiple parties. This will not only save time but also provide transparency and certainty in the process.

Certainty is another critical aspect that needs to be addressed in the home-moving process. Currently, there are many uncertainties that buyers and sellers face, such as the risk of a transaction falling through, delays in the process, and unexpected costs. These uncertainties can cause stress and anxiety, making the home-moving process even more challenging. Reforms are needed to provide buyers and sellers with a sense of security and certainty throughout the process.

One way to improve certainty is by implementing a standardized and regulated system for property surveys. Currently, buyers are responsible for arranging their own surveys, which can be costly and time-consuming. A standardized system will ensure that all properties are thoroughly inspected, providing buyers with a clear understanding of the property’s condition and any potential issues. This will not only improve certainty but also protect buyers from any unexpected costs in the future.

In conclusion, the home-moving process is in dire need of reforms to improve its speed, transparency, and certainty. Embracing technology, implementing standardized systems, and regulating the involvement of professionals can significantly enhance the home-moving experience for buyers and sellers. It is time for the industry to adapt to changing consumer expectations and make the home-moving process a more efficient and stress-free experience. With these reforms in place, the dream of owning a home can become a reality for many, and the home-moving process can be a positive and exciting journey.

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