19 Jun 2026
Homebuying reform to cut homebuying times and costs
Homebuying reform to cut homebuying times by around four weeks and save first-time buyers around £650, says the government.
Announced on 19th June 2026, the UK government shared reforms to the homebuying and selling process in England designed to minimise transaction times, reduce costs, and lower the rate of failed sales.
Sellers and estate agents will be required to provide key information upfront when the property is listed, including the property’s condition, leasehold costs and chain information.
Binding agreements will also be introduced sooner to limit the number of parties withdrawing without a genuine reason.
The average house purchase currently takes approximately 120 days to complete, with around one in three sales falling through.
There will be a new Code of Practice put in place for estate agents, with potential for mandatory qualifications.
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