MHCLG launches Dual Consultations to Improve Information and Transparency in Property Transactions

The UK Government has launched two major consultations aimed at improving how homes are bought and sold. This includes looking at the overarching buying and selling process, as well as considering what information should be available to buyers from the outset.

• Consultation 1: Material Information in Property Listings
• Consultation 2: Home Buying and Selling Reform

Improving Property Listings with Better Information

The first consultation, named Material Information in Property Listings, focuses on ensuring property listings include clear and consistent “material information” to help buyers make informed decisions before committing to a property. This includes details such as:

• Tenure, council tax band, and asking price
• Utilities, parking, and broadband availability
• Local risks such as flooding or planning restrictions

Elmhurst believes that energy performance data, such as EPC ratings, heat loss figures, and other energy efficiency metrics, should be a key part of this information. Providing these details upfront allows people to understand the true cost of living in a home and how it aligns with their sustainability goals.

“Energy data isn’t just useful, it’s essential,” said Mark Tebbatt, Technical Consultant at Elmhurst Energy. “Including it upfront in property listings helps people make smarter choices and supports the wider push for greener homes.”

Making the Home Buying and Selling Process Quicker and Clearer

The second consultation, Home Buying and Selling Reform, looks at how to make the home buying and selling process faster, more transparent, and less stressful for all involved stakeholders.

Proposals include:

• Requiring key property information to be available earlier
• Encouraging the use of digital tools to streamline transactions
• Improving regulation of estate agents and conveyancers
• Exploring reservation agreements to reduce sales falling through

Elmhurst views this as a valuable opportunity to highlight how energy performance information can support a more transparent market and empower consumers to make confident, sustainable choices.

“We fully support the idea of giving buyers more information upfront,” added Mark Tebbatt. “If people understand how efficient a home is before they buy, they’re more likely to invest in improvements and make greener choices.”

Consultation Deadline and Response

Both consultations are open until 29^th December 2025. Elmhurst are currently formulating responses that highlight the importance of energy performance data being included in these proposals.

We would encourage Elmhurst members to submit a response to this consultation, especially those who work closely with estate agents who could provide a unique perspective.