Estate agents should view the government’s proposed overhaul of the homebuying process as an opportunity to modernise how they work and earn, rather than as a threat to their traditional model, according to Ian Macbeth, co-founder of self-employed brokerage Avocado Property Partner Agents.
The reforms, currently under consultation, aim to streamline the homebuying process through measures including mandatory upfront information from sellers, digital property logbooks, and early reservation agreements designed to reduce fall-through rates.
While some in the industry have voiced concern about added compliance and administrative pressures, others argue the changes could reshape how agents engage with clients and structure their fees.
Analysts say that requiring sellers to prepare more information upfront could create an opportunity for agents to charge for this preparatory work earlier in the transaction, helping to improve cash flow and demonstrate commitment on both sides. At the same time, digital tools could allow agents to manage sales pipelines more efficiently and provide greater transparency to buyers and sellers.
ADAPT AND THRIVE
Industry observers believe that agents willing to adapt to a more data-driven, tech-enabled model stand to benefit most – not only through reduced transaction times but through enhanced client trust and operational resilience.
Macbeth (main picture) says: “If sellers are expected to do more preparation before listing, agents can justifiably charge part of their fee at that stage. This reflects the work that goes in from day one and signals genuine commitment from clients.”
He adds that agents who embrace technology could be among the biggest winners as the reforms take shape.
And he says: “Digital reservation tools and transparent workflows can help them move faster, reduce fall-throughs and give clients a clearer, calmer experience. Avocado has already seen agents using systems such as Gazeal significantly strengthen their pipelines.”
FINANCIAL BOOST
Macbeth reckons faster completions would not only benefit consumers but also provide a financial boost for the industry.
He says: “Quicker completions mean better cash flow, less wasted time and healthier businesses
“These reforms could mark a major cultural shift in how property is sold. By adopting smarter tools and modernising fee structures, agents have the chance to raise standards, improve service and strengthen profitability – proving that what’s good for consumers can also be good for the industry.”
However, he cautions that the success of the reforms would depend on effective implementation and industry buy-in.
“The theory behind this makes sense to me personally. I feel there should be a much higher level of quality and certainty in agents’ SSTC pipelines. If we can also see an increased speed in which transactions go through, then it’s a win-win. However, it’s a big change, and we all know how the implementation of HIPs went.”
