Page 16 - Future Demands Jan 2021

While that sounds great, in practice nobody is going to commit to buy a property based purely on their virtual viewing, as evidenced by the desire from both vendors and purchasers for pandemic safe in-person viewings. Even if this has needed some flexibility by both parties at times.
Indeed, there was some speculation at the beginning of the first lockdown that consumers would gravitate to online- only agents, based on the notion that there would be less ‘human interaction/ contact,’ and instead their sale/purchase could largely be facilitated online.
Localised restrictions look set to remain a feature for the foreseeable future and, as a result, the current blend of remote, online, in-person, and socially-distanced interactions between agent and client will remain.
This multi-channel future bring challenges we must face directly. For example, open communication between all parties remains key, and providing customers with timely updates and full visibility of their transactions at a time and through a medium of their choice will deliver benefit. This is of particular importance
why we place great importance on listening to their views, and providing them with the tools and support that allows them to deliver the Connells Group service to all our customers and clients.
Ultimately, we are all part of one industry, and the learnings that will come from the challenges we’re currently seeing in terms of managing record sales pipelines will increase the appetite for greater integration within the supply chain. We expect to see links between agents, conveyancers, lenders and
FUTURE DEMANDS
“WE EXPECT TO SEE LINKS BETWEEN AGENTS, CONVEYANCERS, LENDERS AND PLATFORMS SUCH AS MIO GAIN TRACTION”
The reality is that consumers have not responded in this way and continue to favour the added benefit and support that a full-service local high street estate agent – aided by smart tech – can provide.
It is fair to say, though that 2021 is set to be a transitional year, as progress continues to be made against the virus and we all seek a return to ‘normal’ life.
once sales have been agreed and transactions are progressing.
There will be an increased appetite for innovation but, as a company that has helped drive a number of advancements within the industry, we know more than most that in a people-led industry the best innovations will come from the people that really understand our customers. Whilst technology remains a key enabler, the greatest impact on the service that we deliver in 2021 will come from our frontline staff. That is
platforms such as MIO gain traction to support a more seamless experience for the customer and help deliver reduced transaction timelines that benefit all.
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