A new register has been set up by a group of local councils in a bid to gain a better understanding of what prospective buyers are looking for in a new home.
Entitled ‘Opening Doors’, the information gathered from the scheme would then be passed to developers, with those who sign up receiving updates on construction progress.
A joint initiative between Weymouth & Portland Borough Council, West Dorset District Council and North Dorset District Council, the main aim of the ‘Home Ownership Register’ is to ask would-be-buyers about their requirements which will then be implemented into developments going forward.
The councils believe that questions on the number of bedrooms, affordability and property type will help them obtain a more detailed understanding of what prospective buyers want in a new home.
In terms of how the information is passed on Opening Doors told EYE that “no firm arrangements are in place with any developers/builders/housing organisations to share this data”.
Councillor Graham Carr-Jones, North Dorset District Council leader and housing portfolio holder, said: “We want to hear from anyone thinking of buying, whether they are looking to get on the housing ladder or are an existing homeowner on the move.”
Coun Gill Taylor, Weymouth & Portland Borough Council housing briefholder, said: “There is a quick and simple online form to fill in which means people will have all of the latest property news while playing their part in combating the housing shortage.”
