Rightmove calls for more agent voices

• Rightmove calls for agent voices to bust myths about the industry
• Rightmove research finds the common causes of delays during a property move are outside of the agent’s direct control

Rightmove, the UK’s largest property platform, is inviting and lettings agents across the UK to share their expertise with millions of home-movers, as new research highlights the important role agents play in navigating some of the most challenging parts of the home-moving process.

Research from Rightmove amongst home movers has found that the most common causes of delays during a property transaction are largely outside an agent’s direct control. More than a third (37%) of movers cited conveyancing delays as the biggest cause of hold-ups, followed by survey or valuation issues (15%), delays with searches (11%), chain-related problems (9%), and another party pulling out before being replaced (11%). Poor buyer qualification was cited by just 5% of respondents.

The findings form part of Rightmove’s home mover education programme, which works with independent agents to provide practical guidance and insight to prospective buyers and sellers. The initiative aims to help consumers better understand the home-moving process while showcasing the expertise, problem-solving skills and support agents provide throughout a transaction.

As the industry continues discussions around improving the home-moving process following the Government’s Home Buying and Selling Reform Roadmap, Rightmove has also been bringing together agents and industry leaders through webinars, events and educational initiatives to champion professionalism and share best practice across the sector.

Christian Balshen, Director of Agency Partnerships at Rightmove, said: “Estate agents are at the centre of a transaction, coordinating multiple parties, helping resolve issues and keeping buyers and sellers informed, yet many of the biggest causes of delays sit outside of their direct control.

“The work estate agents do is often underestimated because much of what they deliver happens behind the scenes.  We want to help the public better understand the value agents provide and the vital role they play in helping people move home.”

“We’re keen to hear from more agents who want to share their knowledge and experiences. Whether it’s helping home movers navigate the moving process or raising professional standards through qualifications and training, we’re committed to championing the vital role agents play in the property market.”

Agents interested in contributing their expertise and reaching a national audience can get involved through Rightmove’s Championing Agents Programme.