There was a 70 per cent surge in property hunters messaging estate agents via the Rightmove website this morning compared to yesterday following the government’s announcement that viewings and home moves can resume.

Visits to Rightmove were up by 45 per cent earlier today compared to yesterday and 2,115 new properties were added to the site in just five hours. 

Rightmove’s housing market expert Miles Shipside says: “These are clear signs that the news from the government has prompted more home-hunters to start looking for their next home, and we anticipate further uplift in activity once agents have time to adjust to the new social distancing guidance specific to the home moving sector. 

“Home movers who have been eagerly waiting to take their plans to the next stage should show some patience with agents given the unexpected announcement, to ensure there’s time to adapt to the new guidelines and ensure everyone is kept safe.”