Using Property Research Tools
Overview
VERSA Connect provides access to several integrated property research tools that can assist you when investigating a property, reviewing case information, or preparing a query for a lender.
These tools are available directly from the query screen and provide quick access to external property resources without requiring you to manually search for information elsewhere.
The available property research tools include:
- UK Finance Lenders' Handbook
- Google Maps and Street View
- Rightmove
- Zoopla
- Street Gazetteer
These resources can help you gather additional information, verify property details, and support decision-making throughout the conveyancing process.
Accessing Property Research Tools
Property research tools are available from within the query screen.
To access a tool:
- Open the relevant query.
- Locate the Property Research Tools section.
- Select the required link.
The selected resource will open in a new browser tab or window.
UK Finance Lenders' Handbook
What is the UK Finance Lenders' Handbook?
The UK Finance Lenders' Handbook provides lender-specific guidance and requirements for conveyancers.
The handbook contains information relating to lender policies, lending requirements, and conveyancing instructions.
When Should I Use It?
The handbook can be useful when:
- Reviewing lender requirements
- Checking policy guidance
- Clarifying conveyancing instructions
- Verifying lending criteria
- Access lender-specific guidance
- Search for relevant topics and keywords
- Review lending requirements directly from the lender source
Key Benefits
- Access lender-specific guidance
- Search for relevant topics and keywords
- Review lending requirements directly from the lender source
Google Maps and Street View
What is Google Maps?
Google Maps and Street View provide visual information about a property's location and surroundings.
The tool uses the address or postcode information stored within VERSA Connect to display the relevant property location.
When Should I Use It?
Google Maps can assist when:
- Confirming a property's location
- Reviewing surrounding roads and infrastructure
- Checking access routes
- Investigating nearby landmarks or facilities
- Viewing the property within its local environment
Key Benefits
- Interactive mapping
- Satellite imagery
- Street View functionality
- Improved property visibility
Rightmove
What is Rightmove?
Rightmove provides access to property market information and property listing data.
The platform uses the property's address or postcode to locate relevant information.
Information Available
You may be able to view:
- Property listings
- Property photographs
- Sale prices
- Local market activity
- Comparable properties within the area
When Should I Use It?
Rightmove can help when:
- Researching property values
- Reviewing comparable properties
- Investigating local market conditions
- Gathering additional property information
- Access to market information
- Property comparison tools
- Local area insights
Key Benefits
- Access to market information
- Property comparison tools
- Local area insights
Zoopla
What is Zoopla?
Zoopla provides property market intelligence and valuation information.
The platform uses the address information linked to the query to display relevant property data.
Information Available
You may be able to view:
- Estimated property values
- Previous sale history
- Local market trends
- Nearby property listings
- Comparable property information
- Reviewing property value estimates
- Checking historic sale information
- Understanding local market activity
- Comparing nearby properties
When Should I Use It?
Zoopla can assist when:
- Reviewing property value estimates
- Checking historic sale information
- Understanding local market activity
- Comparing nearby properties
Key Benefits
- Market trend analysis
- Historical property information
- Property value insights
Street Gazetteer
What is the Street Gazetteer?
The Street Gazetteer provides street-level information and local authority details relating to a property.
The tool uses the property address or postcode associated with the query.
Information Available
You may be able to view:
- Street information
- Road details
- Local authority information
- Address validation data
- Validating property information
- Confirming street details
- Reviewing local authority information
- Investigating property-related enquiries
- Quick access to street information
- Improved property validation
- Local authority reference information
When Should I Use It?
The Street Gazetteer can assist when:
- Validating property information
- Confirming street details
- Reviewing local authority information
- Investigating property-related enquiries
Key Benefits
- Quick access to street information
- Improved property validation
- Local authority reference information
Best Practice
Property research tools should be used to support your investigation and help provide accurate information when raising or responding to queries.
Before submitting a query, consider whether any of the available tools can help you:
- Verify property details
- Confirm lender requirements
- Review market information
- Validate address information
- Gather supporting evidence
Using these resources effectively can help improve the quality of information provided to lenders and may reduce delays in the query resolution process.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to leave VERSA Connect to use these tools?
No. The tools are accessed directly from within VERSA Connect and open in a separate browser tab or window.
Can I use these tools before raising a query?
Yes. The tools can be used whenever you need to review property information or gather supporting information.
Do the tools automatically update my query?
No. The tools provide reference information only. Any relevant findings should be included in your query where appropriate.
Are all tools available for every property?
The availability and results displayed may depend on the property information stored within VERSA Connect and the information available from the external resource.
Related Articles
- Creating a New Query
- Understanding Topics and Subtopics
- Uploading Supporting Documents
- Managing Property Information
- Responding to a Lender Response