With the government announcement of the stamp duty holiday until March 31st 2021, prospective homebuyers can look to these five reasons from conveyancing experts to move whilst the property market is booming.

Whether you're a first-time homebuyer, home mover or buy to let investor wondering how and when to make your next move – following the COVID-19 pandemic, the housing market is a hive of activity and there are plenty of opportunities available with the market in its current state.

From good job security, to the fact that you could be settled by Christmas, the conveyancing experts at JMP Solicitors have highlighted the top reasons to move at this time.

Jacqui Harley, head of conveyancing at JMP Solicitors, said: "Whether you're looking to get on the property ladder, move home, buy another property or add to your portfolio, now is a good time to get moving in the current climate as the housing market is particularly buoyant.

"We have compiled a list of top reasons to move now, to outline what is available in the current climate for those who act swiftly to make the most of this window of opportunity."

Here is the list of five reasons to move now:

1. Housing market is buoyant

Following the easing of COVID-19 lockdown measures, the current housing market is varied and buoyant following a reboot. With the recent government announcements, there are numerous opportunities open for those who are looking for their first home, are keen to move to a new home or want to add to their current portfolio. It's worth speaking to a trusted advisor to work through the different options open to you at this time, so that you can navigate the routes best for you.

1. No stamp duty

The most recent government announcement about the housing market outlined an immediate stamp duty holiday up until March 2021, for homes up to £500,000. With low interest rates, property prices have not changed and so no losses will be incurred – it's a great time to move, buy, and put properties on the market during this period.

1. Job security is good at present

As the economy reopens, overall job security is looking more positive and the furlough scheme has been extended with bonuses for potential employers up until the end of January 2021. Whilst this is the case, it's a good time - especially for first time homebuyers - to start looking at getting on the property ladder.

1. You may miss a second pandemic

Many European countries are increasing COVID-19 safety measures again and the UK government announced that the risk of cases increasing in surrounding countries and potentially in the UK is a possibility. This is another reason to kick start the housing process, whilst the market is open for business so that you avoid potential hurdles that would come with a second pandemic. If this does happen, you will at least be in the position that you intended, if you start the ball rolling as soon as possible.

1. You'll be settled by Christmas

If you start the process now, you may be in and settled by the busy Christmas period – which in terms of stress, will be much less hassle than having completions and move in dates so last minute. Ideally, you'd like to be out of the previous home, unpacked and set up ready for decorating the Christmas tree, wrapping presents and relaxing with friends and family, so timing really is key if this is important to you.

Jacqui Harley is a licensed conveyancing technician and a conveyancing executive at JMP Solicitors, heading up the Residential Conveyancing department.

For further advice please call Jacqui on 0800 085 9966 or email [email protected].

Established in 2000, JMP Solicitors is a Grantham-based multi-service law firm providing services for a diverse range of local and national clients from individuals, to companies and organisations.