Lawmakers to Review Property Transactions

Jersey politicians have agreed to carry out a wide consultation and review of the island’s residential property transaction process.

The States Assembly backed the move following a proposition from Deputy Max Andrews, who had called for the introduction of pre-sale agreements to stop buyers and sellers withdrawing from deals at the last minute. His proposals, however, were amended by the Council of Ministers to allow for a broader review before any new laws are introduced.

Deputy Andrews argued that pre-sale agreements could help prevent gazumping—where sellers accept higher offers late in the process—and gazundering, where buyers reduce their offers just before completion.

While ministers acknowledged the issue, they said a full review was needed to modernise the system. The consultation, to be completed by June 2027, will seek views from the public, estate agents, mortgage providers and legal professionals.

Housing Minister Deputy Sam Mézec welcomed the Assembly’s decision, describing the current property transaction system as “quite archaic” and prone to causing stress for buyers and sellers.

“Deputy Andrews is right to highlight that people do experience difficulties, with transactions falling through at the last minute and leaving many heartbroken,” he said. “But I think there is more to the problem than just introducing pre-sale agreements, so a wider consultation makes sense.”

Speaking outside the States building, Deputy Andrews—pictured wearing a dark blue suit and light blue tie—said the decision to conduct a consultation was a positive compromise.

“So many people have shared with me their experiences of gazumping and gazundering,” he said. “It’s important we modernise the process, provide more certainty, and better protect buyers and sellers. By 2027, we should have a clear direction on what new legislation will look like.”