HIPs go digital but still court controversy
Estate Agents - 20/09/2006 16:14:30
Estate agents set to offer consumers highly controversial home information packs (HIPs) will be buoyed by the news that a new automated system has been launched.
First Sellers Packs' (FSP's) XMLEngine software has been developed in conjunction with Kodak and conveyors MyHomeMove and offers a simple delivery system for digital HIPs.
Firms can customise the XMLEngine software to match their company, with the program able to apply corporate branding to all finished packs.
FSP's technology publishes the HIPs in a ready-to-use PDF file, which can then be emailed, faxed, printed or copied to a disc.
However, HIPs are still courting controversy even with the launch of new technology to help with their production.
Last month, the Department of Trade and Industry announced that it was to give occupiers a "seven day cooling-off period", which now means home inspectors and other professionals involved with HIPs will have to wait three weeks before beginning the sale process.
Trevor Kent, the former president of the National Association of Estate Agents and a critic of HIPs said: "Can anyone seriously suggest that Home Information Pack Legislation can be allowed to continue?
"Home sellers will now become law-breakers with a £200 per day fine if they jump the gun and nail a For Sale sign up before their pack is ready."
If you're interested in finding out more about the HIPs scheme or are simply considering a move, click here to find out about estate agents in your area.