Two conflicting views appeared today in the Estate Agency News www.estateagencynews.co.uk highlighting the polarised opinions for and against HIPs.
On page 2, Paul Smith of Chief Executive of Spicerhaart renews his call for their abolition citing non compliance as a reason. This may be a weakness in the whole regime, but somewhat skewed logic, in as much as it would be to say, abolish speed limits, merely because people choose not to stick rigidly to the limits.
He also contends that a new Conservative government would immediately seek to abolish HIPs when it comes to power. It may be somewhat delusional to expect that with the welter of issues likely to affect the next government, getting rid of Hips would be any where near the top of the government’s priorities. The HIPs debate may well have quietened down by then and HIPs themselves become more accepted by the public. The Government's campaign to educate the public has been shambolic at best, and non existent at worst.
The opposite view expressed by property sector management consultant Adam Walker on page 12, urges the need for added value to the basic HIP. Already forward thinking companies will be planning such advances. The list is lengthening and might include floor plans, better photographs, exchange ready HIPs. There is also the marketing advantage of introducing a property as “coming soon” and creating interest whilst the HIP is being compiled.
If you would like to enter the debate please email me at the address shown in either www.actionmove.co.uk or www.cluttoncox.co.uk
