AN OPDA REPORT

The Future of Homebuying & Selling

Consumer Expectations and the Path to Digital Reform

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Homebuying is a significant milestone for many and a fundamental aspect of financial planning.

Yet, for too long, the process has been bogged down in inefficiencies, repetitive paperwork, and fragmented communication. This report, commissioned by the Open Property Data Association (OPDA), captures the voices of more than 5,300 recent homebuyers and sellers, shining a light on the frustrations and aspirations that define today’s market.

With a foreword by Phil Spencer, and a wealth of insights drawn from extensive consumer research, it makes the case for digital transformation that not only streamlines transactions but also instils confidence in an industry on the brink of change.

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"Digitising the property market isn't just about bringing an old system into the 21st century - it's about creating a faster, more transparent and less stressful experience for everyone involved."

Phil Spencer

Founder of Move iQ & Property Expert

What's in the Report?

This report explores how the homebuying process is falling short of consumer expectations—and what needs to change.

The report also highlights the growing demand for a faster, more transparent, and secure homebuying experience—and offers clear recommendations for making it happen.

It examines the frustrations of over 5,300 buyers and sellers, revealing that:

41%

found poor communication the most challenging aspect

62%

were asked to provide the same documents multiple times

82%

support the idea of a digital property pack

Contents

Foreword

An introduction by Maria Harris, Chair of The Open Property Data Association.

Executive Summary

The homebuying process is stuck in the past, and this section lays bare the consequences: communication breakdowns, delays that stretch on for months, and a system that leaves consumers feeling powerless. But it also highlights something more hopeful—an industry on the brink of digital transformation, with consumers ready and eager for a better way.

About the Research

This section outlines the methodology behind the findings, offering credibility and depth. With data from over 5,000 buyers and sellers across the UK, the research cuts through assumptions and reveals the real experiences, expectations, and demands driving the call for transformation.

The State of Homebuying Today

Here, you’ll find an honest snapshot of the current homebuying experience. From fragmented communication to repetitive paperwork and widespread delays, the realities of the process are laid bare—making the case for why the system must evolve.

Key Research Findings

This section dives into the heart of the report: detailed insights into who today’s homebuyers are, what they expect, and where the process is breaking down. It’s an inside look at consumer sentiment and the structural challenges the industry can no longer ignore.

What Needs to Change

The homebuying process is overdue for transformation, and this section lays out a roadmap for getting there. It highlights the need to fix communication breakdowns, eliminate redundant paperwork, and close the gap between expectations and reality.

Recommendations

For policymakers, industry players, technology providers, and consumers, the path forward is clear. This section outlines specific, actionable strategies to modernise the homebuying journey, from mandating digital standards to building trusted digital ecosystems.

Conclusion: The Future of Homebuying

This closing section paints a vision of a digital future—one where transactions are faster, safer, and more transparent. The groundwork has been laid. The demand is there. The question is no longer if, but when.

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Meet the Contributors

Drawing on the experience of OPDA’s communication working group and its Chair, the report sets out clear next steps and guidance for government and industry. The Chair would also like to extend her thanks to the executive team for their input and support

Maria Harris

Open Property Data Association

Angela Hesketh

PEXA

Sian Hemming-Metcalfe

Inventory Base

Dale Jannels

One Mortgage Systems

As Featured In...

"The traditional homebuying process is at a crossroads. Despite the significant emotional and financial investment that buying or selling a property entails, many consumers continue to navigate a system burdened with delays, poor communication, and outdated practices."

Maria Harris

Chair of the Open Property Data Association

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Understanding what homebuyers and sellers really want is the first step to creating a faster, fairer process—download the report to see where change is needed most.
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