Over half of the people currently looking to move home in England and Wales (52%) would prefer sellers to be required to commission a survey before listing their property, mirroring the current process in Scotland, according to Compare My Move.
Of those in favour, 76% said it would give buyers a clearer understanding of the property's condition before making an offer, whilst 22% of people living in England and Wales would prefer formal offers to be made via solicitors instead of estate agents, again following the Scottish model.
Dave Sayce, co-founder and Managing Director of Compare My Move, said: “Our latest research makes it clear – the home moving process in England and Wales is leaving buyers somewhat frustrated and vulnerable. It’s no surprise so many people are looking to Scotland’s more transparent and structured approach as a better alternative.
“Whether it’s having a clearer picture of a property’s condition or removing the stress of gazumping, these changes could make a significant difference in the moving experience.”
Homeowners (18%) would also prefer to see a blind bidding system introduced in England and Wales – another practice already in place in Scotland. In this system, sellers set a minimum price and buyers submit confidential offers above or around that amount.
Of those who favoured blind bidding, 73% said it reduces the risk of gazumping, a common issue in England and Wales where a seller accepts a higher offer after already agreeing to a sale.