Automation set to help agents meet Levelling Up agenda

A PropTech supplier claims that increased automation can help letting agents meet the demands of the government’s Levelling Up agenda.

Openview – Powered by VTUK says the government’s Levelling Up White Paper pledges radical reform of the rental sector with, for example, the scrapping of Section 21 eviction powers, the introduction of a mandatory landlord register, and an insistence that more private rental properties meet the Decent Homes Standard set originally for the social housing sector.

Peter Grant, chairman of Openview, says: “Without automation, these changes might seem daunting. Landlords and agents who make use of automated tools can keep up to date with the status of their properties through transparent reporting and task managers.

"These tools will keep landlords and agents protected as the technology will successfully prove the quality of the home. Storing property information on a reliable cloud will keep all parties protected and prevent major issues from occurring in the future.”

The Section 21 changes emphasise the importance of storing information in a safe place: if legal action follows, landlords and their agents cannot afford to lose track of what’s happening to their properties. 

Grant continues: “Large amounts of data and amounts of money are dealt with daily in the property industry and this is why automated software that prevents illegal activity needs to be relied on. Automation promotes transparency and therefore will allow users to keep a watchful eye on every aspect of their business.”

Those agencies dealing in both sales and lettings will face the biggest challenges, Grant adds.

“A large influx of buyers is expected as a result of the government’s aim to boost homeownership in England through a £1.5 billion Levelling Up Building Fund. Also, most of the £1.8 billion brownfield funding will help transform brownfield sites in the North and Midlands.

“With these upcoming plans to increase the level of housing, agents must ensure that their service is rapid and consistent during busy periods.”

Grant explains: “When it comes to house purchases, time is of the essence as processes such as paperwork and transactions can cause delays. Although these new homes will not be built right away, agents must prepare for what is to come. Automation with cloud-based software will effectively keep track of high volumes of transactions and paperwork.”