OnTheMarket Unveils New Features for Buyers and Agents

Buyers can now search for eco-friendly homes and message agents through WhatsApp as part of a feature launch by UK challenger portal OnTheMarket.

The portal says the new features will go live in the coming weeks.

The updates include the options for users to arrange live video appraisals, bigger agent profiles and a WhatsApp messaging service for agent enquiries.

Search filters will be added including auction properties, pet-friendly properties, student homes and 'green' choices.

An Express Appraisal feature will let consumers get an agent view on their favourite properties or get valuations without needing to arrange home visits.

Interestingly, OnTheMarket says the new features are a specific response to feedback from agents and customers.

Jason Tebb, chief executive at OnTheMarket, said:

"Since I joined the business, our aim has been to listen to our agents and deliver innovative solutions that support their businesses.

"Many of our developments aren’t only born from internal concepts but come from feedback we receive directly. For example, agents called for updates to be made to branch details pages to expand the information available on them and the integration of WhatsApp to the site was also requested to suit the evolving communication channels our agents use to connect with their clients.

"Our consumer feedback is also important to us, so after taking on board requests to make search results more tailored to different needs, we’ve introduced multiple filter options. Having listened to both our agents and consumers, I’m incredibly proud we’ve been able to act on our feedback and deliver more to continue improving our offering."

OnTheMarket offered golden handcuffs to four senior directors in June this year. However, last month it was announced that CFO Clive Beattie will leave the company in January 2023, with a new role at Nurtur.group lined up.