Rightmove has busiest ever start to a new year

Rightmove has recorded its busiest ever start to a new year.

The leading property web site says that visits to its site are up a massive 30% on the same period last year and people contacting estate agents is 11% higher than at the start of 2020.

Tim Bannister, Director of Property Data at Rightmove said: “January is usually one of our busiest months of the year as people start to make plans to move, as was the case at the start of last year when we also had the post-election bounce that gave hope of an active spring market, before that all changed with the temporary closure from March to May.

“We didn’t know how this year would start with so much change and uncertainty around restrictions, but it’s been reassuring for those people hoping or needing to move that the demand we’ve seen so far is the highest we’ve ever had in January.”

One person echoing the findings of Rightmove is Ben Furnell, Managing Director of Bardsey based Furnell Residential. “We have had an incredibly busy start to the new year with valuations significantly up on the same period last year as people continue to re-evaluate their living arrangements.

“We are also seeing plenty of interest and offers around the asking price for stock we have recently brought to market."

He continued: “The industry has been resolute throughout the pandemic and we continue to be open for business. We have adapted our processes surrounding viewings to meet all current Government guidelines and provide our customers with a safe environment.

“Demand is currently outstripping supply so it is a good time for people thinking about moving to put their house on the market.”

Furnell Residential is the leading agent for Bardsey, Wetherby, Collingham, Scarcroft, East Keswick, Boston Spa, Harewood and surrounding villages.