In this first stage of the consultation process, MHCLG have published proposals aimed at streamlining the home buying and selling process - reducing inefficiencies and transaction fall-through rates. Offering a practical framework for achieving these objectives, the proposal includes provisions for upfront property information, professionalising property agents, and introducing binding contracts at an earlier stage of the buying process. As a means of realising these provisions, the consultation emphasises a greater use-case for digitalisation, including the leveraging of AI. 

Our response addresses these proposals and advises improvements. Reflecting the views of our broad membership base, we:

• Support more comprehensive information being made available to buyers at an earlier stage in the process, provided there are clear regulatory frameworks that define responsibilities and liabilities.
• Support new professional standards for property agents.
• Cautiously support mechanisms to make property transactions more binding at an earlier stage. We highlight the risks presented by a chain-dependent market, and suggest that successful upfront information provision reform may render increasingly binding contracts less imperative.
• Propose there is scope for greater collaboration between professional parties involved in transactions – including mortgage lenders – to support the specific initiatives in this proposal.
• Encourage greater digitalisation across the home buying and selling process, and emphasise the importance of a robust digital infrastructure surrounding this. Protections for vulnerable customers and clear liability frameworks are also crucial. 

Our full response to the consultation provides further detail and we will continue to work with MHCLG to build on the progress made as they review the consultation response and publish further steps in 2026. 

Related links: 
Home buying and selling reform - GOV.UK