Newly formed Digital Property Market Steering Group unveils roadmap 

The Digital Property Market Steering Group (DPMSG), which includes representatives from both CILEX and CILEx Regulation, has published a roadmap of priorities aimed at driving “crucial change in the land and property market”.

Focused on areas where new technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and further digitisation can improve the home buying and selling process, the group has brought together feedback from across the property sector and government to formulate its key objectives.

The top priority announced in January was the provision of upfront information for buyers, promising “no surprises and no delays” when it came to waiting for searches or new information that emerged after the buying decision has been made.

The group also prioritised progress on transparency and innovation by sharing information using an open protocol that “allows everyone to see what is happening in a transaction” and the use of digital ID checks and e-signatures to make the process easier and more secure.

Collaborative research across users and the proptech sector was expected to accelerate the use of emerging technology such as AI, the DPMSG said.

Mike Harlow, deputy chief executive and director of customer and strategy at HM Land Registry, said the DPMSG would be “actively monitoring and reflecting on our progress over the next 12 months, so it is important to note that this is a working document that will be ever-evolving, helping us to align ourselves towards common goals, fostering better collaboration and better understanding”.

He outlined the importance of collaboration to achieve a shared vision “where everyone involved in buying, leasing and selling land and property experiences a secure and modern market that is transparent, customer-friendly and business-friendly at all stages.”

The DPMSG is also working closely with the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities to understand how it can support future home buying and selling policy and collaborate with the department’s new proptech steering board.

The group will publish an annual report later in 2024, outlining progress, the digital health of the property ecosystem, and its future direction.