Homebuying Reforms: What the Government’s Proposed Shake-Up Could Mean for Buyers and Sellers

Buying or selling a home is one of the biggest financial decisions most people will make – but anyone who has moved before will know that the process can sometimes feel slower, more uncertain and more stress than it needs to be.

The government has now announced a proposed shake-up of the homebuying and selling process, with the aim of reducing delays, cutting costs and limiting the number of sales that fall through before completion.

Here at Jeremy Swan, we welcome any steps that help make the property journey clearer, more transparent and more efficient for both buyers and sellers. While the detail of the reforms will continue to develop over time, the direction of travel is important – and it highlights why preparation, accurate information and professional guidance matter more than ever.

What Has Been Announced?

The government has outlined plans to make the homebuying and selling process faster, simpler and more secure.

According to today’s announcement (19^th June 2026), the reforms are intended to:

• Cut the average homebuying process by around 4 weeks
• Save first-time buyers an average of £650
• Reduce the number of transactions that fall through
• Improve transparency through better upfront material information
• Make greater use of digital tools and property data
• Raise professional standards within estate agency

One of the key proposals is the introduction of upfront ‘sales packs’, which would give buyers important property information earlier in the process. These could include details such as the property’s condition, leasehold costs (where relevant) and chain position.

The government has also set out plans for earlier binding agreements, digital property logbooks, electronic signatures, digital ID/AML checks and AI-assisted conveyancing as part of a longer-term move towards a more modern property transaction system.

Why is Reform Being Considered?

The current homebuying process can be frustrating for everyone involved.

The government’s announcement highlights that the average home purchase currently takes around 120 days, with 1 in 3 sales falling through. Failed transactions can lead to wasted time, duplicated costs and considerable stress for both buyers and sellers.

For sellers, a collapsed sale can mean returning to the market after weeks or months of uncertainty.

For buyers, it can mean losing money on surveys, searches, mortgage arrangements and legal work – often with no property to show for it.

The proposed reforms are designed to reduce these pain points by ensuring that better information is available earlier and that both parties have greater confidence once a sale is agreed.

What Could This Mean for Sellers?

For sellers, the message is clear: preparation is key.

If sales pack become a formal requirement in the future, they may need to provide more information at the point their property goes on the market. This might include details such as:

• The property’s condition
• Leasehold or freehold status
• Service charges or ground rent, where applicable
• Planning or building regulation information
• Chain position
• Material information that may affect a buyer’s decision.

Even before any new legislation comes into force, sellers can benefit from taking a more proactive approach. Having documents and key information ready early can help to reduce delays once a buyer is found.

It can also help build confidence. Buyers are more likely to proceed decisively when they feel well informed from the get-go.

What Could This Mean for Buyers?

For buyers, the proposed changes could make it easier to understand a property before committing significant time and funds.

More upfront information should help buyers make better-informed decisions earlier on in the process, reducing unwelcome surprises after an offer has been accepted.

This could be particularly helpful to first time buyers who are navigating the process for the first time and may be more vulnerable to unexpected costs or delays.

Earlier Binding Agreements: What Are They?

One of the most significant proposals is the use of earlier binding agreements.

Currently, in England and Wales, a property transaction is not generally legally binding until the exchange of contracts. This means either party can withdraw late in the process, often after significant time and money has been spent.

The government has suggested that future reforms could introduce binding conditional contracts earlier on in the journey, potentially once an offer is accepted. This would be designed to secure commitment from both parties, whilst still allowing for legitimate reasons to withdraw.

Importantly, the government has stated that this requirement would not come into effect until after sales packs are embedded, so buyers would have access to key information before becoming more firmly committed.

This area will require further development, including fair penalty levels, clear exceptions and dispute resolution processes. For now, it’s best viewed as a future proposal rather than immediate change and requirement.

The Role of Digital Property Information

Another major theme of the proposed changes is digitisation.

The proposed reforms include greater use of:

• Digital property logbooks
• Secure data sharing between professionals
• Digital identity checks
• Electronic signatures
• AI-assisted conveyancing
• Real-time transaction tracking

The aim is to reduce duplication and speed up communication between estate agents, solicitors, lenders, conveyancers and buyers.

It’s something that we’re already doing here at Jeremy Swan in the following ways:

• Digital legal packs – that can be securely shared with solicitors to facilitate smoother transactions and communications between solicitors
• Digital ID and AML checks
• Electronic signing of documents
• Real-time transaction tracking

When Could These Changes Happen?

The reforms are expected to be introduced in phases.

The government’s current roadmap suggests:

• Later this year: a Code of Practice setting out minimum standards for property agents, along with guidance to improve property listing information
• From 2027 : consultation on estate agent qualifications and expanded digital tools
• By the end of this Parliament: legislation to require sales packs, binding contracts and digital systems for sharing trusted property information

So the changes won’t be happening overnight, however buyers and sellers should be aware that the industry as a whole is moving towards greater transparency, better preparation and more efficient digital processes.

What Should Sellers Do Now?

If you’re thinking of selling, we recommend getting organised as soon as possible with practical steps such as:

• Speaking to an estate agent early about your plans
• Checking what documents may be useful before marketing
• Making sure any planning, building regulation or guarantee paperwork is available
• Considering whether any small repairs or presentation improvements could help
• Being realistic about pricing and timescales
• Choosing an agent who communicates clearly and understands the local market

What Should Buyers Do Now?

Preparation is equally important if you’re looking to buy.

Before making an offer, it is worth considering:

• Your source of funds, especially if you’re getting a mortgage
• Your preferred location and non-negotiables
• Local amenities, schools and transport links
• The property’s condition and potential future costs
• Whether you have a solicitor who is ready to act
• How quickly you are able to proceed

In competitive locations, being organised can make a real difference when the right property becomes available.

Local Knowledge Still Matters

While technology and reform may improve the process, local expertise will remain essential.

Every property and every move is different. A character cottage in Ballinger, a family home in Great Missenden, a bungalow in Little Kingshill or a village-entre home close to the station will appeal to different buyers and require a different marketing approach.

Here at Jeremy Swan, we combine detailed local knowledge with professional advice and a clear understanding of how the property market is changing. Our role is to help sellers prepare properly, help buyers make informed decisions, and support both sides through the process with confidence. Key parts of these changes are already a part of our process here including transparent material information and digital legal packs as standard to help speed up the process of selling and buying.

Thinking of Buying or Selling?

The proposed homebuying reforms are a reminder that preparation, transparency and good advice are at the heart of a successful move.

Whether you’re thinking of selling your home or looking for your next property in the Chilterns, we’re here to help.

Get in touch today to book your free valuation or discuss your move requirements today.