In the lap of the gods or masters of our own destiny? - Comment on the HMRC property transaction figures for August from Richard Pike at Phoebus Software

Richard Pike, Phoebus Software sales and marketing director, says “The health of the housing market continued in August which, considering that the stamp duty holiday was only announced in July, is more than likely due to a large number of transactions, that were put on hold, finally completing.

“Over the next couple of months, as the rush to market really kicks in it is likely that these numbers will continue to increase. However, with conveyancers already reporting that workload is slowing completion times there could well be a lag. Of course there is also the imminent announcement of further measures to slow the spread of Coronavirus, which will almost definitely have an effect in the longer term.

“We are now, unfortunately, in the lap of the gods or, if the next set of guidelines are followed properly, perhaps masters of our own destiny.”

Published: 22 September 2020