Property management software: helping agents with tiers

This article was written correct at the time of publishing on 30 November, following the announcement of the updated three tier system to be introduced following the end of national lockdown restrictions on 2 December 2020. Please check gov.uk for the latest guidance.

Tiers are back. The national lockdown period has ended and estate agents in England find themselves navigating the complexities of an ever-changing tiering system once again.

In practice, changing tiers will not force any major changes on the day-to-day operation of estate agents, providing the necessary measures are in place.

What does the three-tier system mean for estate agents?

Estate agents can remain open across all three tiers and property viewings are still allowed, with the onus on estate agents to provide comprehensive guidance on social distancing and COVID-secure viewings.

Moving day is also largely unaffected, because limits on gatherings do not apply to facilitate moving home across all three tiers.

However, if the last four weeks have taught us anything, it is that businesses should be prepared for all eventualities.

Keeping communication open with buyers and sellers

Communication is key; customers do not want to be bombarded with emails, but they do want to be kept up to date with how changing restrictions might impact their transaction. And property software can provide the solution.

Here are three ways to use property software to your advantage during the COVID-19 pandemic:

1: Real-time communication

It is vital to keep communicating with customers, whether vendors, buyers, applicants, landlords or tenants.

One recent study showed that more than half the British public don’t fully understand the local restrictions in place, so tell them.

With Alto’s PropertyFile integration, you can talk to your customers in real time, online and when it suits them. This is especially important at key periods of change, such as the reintroduction of a tiering system.

With a few simple clicks you remind your entire community that you are open (with appointments if applicable).

2: Ensuring COVID 19-secure viewings

The property market is by no means at a standstill. Viewings and transactions can continue, but there is clear guidance on how to conduct viewings in the safest possible way, including leaving windows open, maintaining social distancing, wearing masks and using hand sanitiser.

With Alto software it is quick and simple to send an automated email once a viewing is confirmed that provides both applicants and vendors with the vital information they need – demonstrating your own commitment to safety and hygiene in the process.

3: Preparing for changes

While a change in tiers should not have any direct impact on office appointments, viewings or completions, it is important to be prepared for further changes during what remains an uncertain time. Alto’s property software offers lightning-fast admin with cloud-based, real-time integration between users.

So even if staff are working from home, or if an individual office is forced to close due to self-isolation, you can have confidence in your systems and minimise disruption for customers.

Want to see more? Find out other benefits of Alto property software for estate agents.