More than two thirds of house buyers still determined to move in 2020

Following the UK Government lifting restrictions to help restart England’s housing market, a poll of potential property buyers across the UK has found 69 per cent are still determined to move to a new home in 2020.

The poll of 750 house buyers, which was carried out by national homebuilder Miller Homes in May, also found that 36 per cent would ideally like to move by the end of the summer - indicating Brits appetite to get their property plans back on track.

According to reports, it’s been estimated that 450,000 buyers and renters in the UK had to put their new home ambitions on hold during lockdown. The government’s plan to help restart England’s housing market included reopening estate agents, encouraging safe show home viewings that adhere to strict social distancing measures and allowing removal firms and conveyancers to resume operations.  Currently, measures to reopen Scotland’s housing market are planned for 18 June or after, and Northern Ireland and Wales have yet to confirm plans.

Chris Endsor, chief executive officer at Miller Homes, believes the determination shown by potential house buyers could be critical to the speed of the housing market’s recovery.

Chris said: “It’s encouraging to see that so many people are still keen to push forward with their property plans as soon as possible.

“With everyone spending so much more time at home during the lockdown, many people will have taken the opportunity to re-evaluate their current living arrangements and this may prompt increased interest in moving home.  Whilst circumstances for many may have changed, for example personal finances, work routine or family life, it’s likely these changes will be key factors in what they’re now looking for in their new home; however it's clear these have not detracted from that desire to find the right property.”

Following the government's announcement easing restrictions on the housing market, Miller Homes has reopened its show homes and sales centres on active developments across England. To adhere to the strict social distancing measures in place, buyers will be able to visit by appointment only. Customers can still view properties virtually if they prefer to.

Miller Homes has also announced an offer for potential house buyers who’s new home plans might be affected by the economic uncertainty, with a pledge to cover up to the first six months of their mortgage payments, if they reserve with the housebuilder online before the end of June.  Miller Homes current developments span across local communities nationwide, from Edinburgh right down to Surrey.

Chris adds: “Even as strict lockdown measures begin to be lifted, we will continue to work closely with all our colleagues, partners and customers to ensure that, first and foremost, every step we take keeps people safe, whilst helping to get those plans for moving to a new home back on track.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• For over 85 years, Miller Homes has established a reputation for building outstanding quality family homes and providing excellent customer service. The company is committed to building homes safely in a way which is considerate to the environment.
• In 2020 Miller Homes was awarded a five star rating in the Home Builders Federation (HBF) National Home Builders Federation New Home Customer Satisfaction Survey.
• Miller Homes operates across three divisions - Midlands & Southern, North of England and Scotland.
• Miller Homes offers a variety of incentives, including government-backed schemes and its own schemes, to assist homebuyers in purchasing a new home. 
• Further information is available at www.millerhomes.co.uk