ESTATE agents in Bolton have spoken out after the government unexpectedly relaxed rules around moving home.

The housing market has effectively reopened ­— with home viewings, which had been put on hold as part of lockdown, now permitted under new regulations.

Bolton estate agents say they are now "very busy" and welcome their business starting again ­— but add that many precautions will have to be put in place to make sure business can be done safely.

Sally Jones, director of sales at Purple Property Shop, in Astley Bridge, said: “I think the government announcement about viewings was a bit of a shock.”

She said that since the announcement they had been flooded with calls and emails requesting viewings.

But she said Purple Property was taking precautions and not starting with viewings until they are fully prepared next week.

She said: “There’s a long list of properties to be viewed, but it is important we cut down on unnecessary viewings.

“We don’t want to put anyone at risk, keeping everyone safe is the first priority.”

They are looking to limit viewings to people who are ready to imminently sign for properties to keep contact as low as possible.

Andrew Cardwell, managing director of Cardwells Estate Agents, in Institute Street, shared some of these concerns.

He said: “We were pleased to learn late on Tuesday evening that the property market was going to be unlocked on Wednesday morning.

“Hopefully this will help to release some of the pent up demand that was beginning to build up within the market.

“However, at present, it is a strange juxtaposition in relation to the restrictions on people not being allowed to go and see their family.

“So it must be remembered that we are still in the midst of a terrible pandemic and everybody should do all they can to protect themselves and others from the virus.

“In the first instance all viewings will be conducted virtually. This will minimise the number of physical viewings.

“We have been surprised with how those looking for a new property have quickly adapted to using virtual video tours. I would expect these to become even more popular.

“The protection of our colleagues, customers and their families will be at the forefront of our actions, whilst ensuring that we do our small part in getting the people of Bolton, Bury and the surrounding areas moving again. We are absolutely indebted to those working in the NHS and would like to place on record our deep thanks for their phenomenal work in this time of national emergency.”