RESIDENTIAL property sales are moving quicker than many expected, according to a local solicitor.

Cartmell Shepherd Solicitors' conveyancing department has reported that activity has returned to the sector earlier than first anticipated, prompting a sharp uptake in inquiries for conveyancing.

Elizabeth Crouch, head of residential property at Cartmell Shepherd, which has a base in Haltwhistle, said: “While it was quiet during the initial stages of lockdown, now that estate agents are open again activities have picked up significantly. We have been operating throughout lockdown to support people, and now that estate agents are open and conducting viewings again the inquiries have really picked up.

“The level of interest in conveyancing quotes is returning much quicker than many firms expected with the majority of conveyancers still furloughed.”

The pandemic has reportedly caused many to re-evaluate their lives and consider a move to a property with a garden, with more inquiries about homes in rural areas such as Northumberland.

Elizabeth added that the team at Cartmell Shepherd was highly experienced.

She continued: “Across the department, we have vast experience of dealing with all aspects of property transactions from smaller homes to multi-million pound properties.

“We are here to help people in any way we can as they look to make a move and buy or sell their home as we come out of lockdown.”