The competition framework Summary and Background Section 70: Estate agency work
479.Section 70 extends a current exemption to the definition of ‘estate agency work’ within the EAA 1979.
480.Section 70 excludes from regulation under the EAA 1979 businesses such as private sales internet portals which provide a means for prospective parties to a property transaction to make contact in response to an advertisement or property information. The exemption applies provided that such businesses do nothing further that is covered by the general definition. The intention of the amendment is to update and clarify the law regarding businesses such as private sales portals and to deregulate those businesses in providing services which simply allow buyers and sellers to find and communicate with one another, provided they do not otherwise participate in the transaction for example by advising, negotiating or providing other services.