Property agents are being urged to take part in a government-backed initiative designed to modernise how data is shared across the UK housing market.
The call comes as work begins on the Smart Property Data Trust Framework sandbox, a project intended to test how property information can be securely accessed, shared and reused between industry participants.
The initiative aims to move the sector away from traditional document-heavy processes towards a system built on structured data and shared digital standards, improving transparency and efficiency across the property transaction process.
Industry participants already involved include organisations from across the property and technology sectors, but project leaders say more estate agents and property professionals are needed to ensure the framework reflects real-world market practice.
CONTROLLED TESTING ENVIRONMENT
Funded by a £742,700 grant from the government’s Regulators’ Pioneer Fund, the 12-month project is being delivered by the Council for Licensed Conveyancers in partnership with the Open Property Data Association (OPDA). It also involves technology partner Raidiam, data from HM Land Registry and oversight from the Digital Property Market Steering Group (DPMSG).
The sandbox will provide a controlled testing environment where accredited participants – including estate agents, conveyancers, lenders, brokers, search providers and technology firms – can trial new ways of securely exchanging property data.
NO LONGER A CONCEPT
Maria Harris (main picture), Chair of the Open Property Data Association, says: “Smart data will transform the property market, and the sandbox project is building the framework to make it happen.
“This is no longer a concept, it’s a live testing environment where real processes are put to the test, with findings shared openly across the sector. We’ve received a lot of interest from participants, but we need more property agents to get involved so we have a balanced representation from across the industry.
“Their expertise and knowledge is crucial so that we can build standards that meet their needs in the real world. Early adopters will gain speed, insight and competitiveness, staying ahead of a market that’s changing faster than ever.”
The findings of the project will be published at the end of the trial, with the aim of helping the sector reduce duplication, improve transaction certainty and introduce greater automation across the property and mortgage process.
