Registry announces new steps to digital conveyancing (LSG)
Electronic documents validated with digital signatures will finally replace paper property deeds if a set of proposals by Land Registry is approved. The agency recently released for consultation its plans […]
Rebukes for partners whose firm was tricked by fraudsters into paying away client’s money (LF)
Three partners of a law firm that was tricked by fraudsters into paying the proceeds of a property sale into the wrong bank account – and did not carry out […]
New progression platform ‘slicing two weeks off transaction times’, claim (PIE)
Early trials by estate agents of a new sales progression platform are said to show that its use is speeding up transactions by over two weeks.
ARLA and NAEA Launch Propertymark (IC)
Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) and National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA) are today moving into a new era, altering their emphasis from industry facing licensing to consumer protection […]
Housing White Paper: Professional Opinion (TC)
Described as helping the “homeowners of tomorrow”, the recently released Housing White Paper outlines the government’s long-term plan to deal with the UK’s housing crisis.
High Court rules fracking can go ahead (TC)
Following the loss of a legal challenge from environmentalists, fracking is set to go ahead in North Yorkshire.
Consumer feedback furthers digital mortgage development (TC)
Land Registry’s Digital Mortgage service aims to digitise the mortgage process where there is no change of ownership and the mortgage is simply being added to an existing title register.
More agents taking pre-contract fees from prospective purchasers, claim (PIE)
According to the Guardian, “growing numbers of home buyers are in effect being charged for the privilege of having their offer accepted” – a practice banned in Scotland but not […]
TPO defends code change over buyers’ pre-contract deposits (EAT)
The Property Ombudsman’s office has defended a change to its code of practice which, according to a national newspaper, means agents in England and Wales can ask purchasers for £1,000 […]
Law Society may intervene in landmark fraud case (LSG)
The Court of Appeal will be tasked with offering landmark guidance on the liability of professionals where property is purchased through an ID fraud.
Network Rail faces compensation bill worth millions after japaneses knotweed ruling
Network Rail is facing compensation claims that could total tens of millions of pounds after a landmark court ruling on damage caused to homes by Japanese knotweed growing on its […]
Santander to review clause suggesting landlords hike rents to ‘maximum’ achievable (PIE)
The Government may be focusing on letting agent fees to make renting fairer for tenants, but an interesting story has emerged regarding landlord contracts with their lenders.