Everything about Home Information Packs (HIPS)

In just over a year, the home information pack (HIP) will be part of every property transaction. The Government insists it will be better for the public - but criticism is mounting. Last week, the Conservative Party said it will oppose its introduction, and research by the National Association of Estate Agents shows that the public is beginning to have doubts.

Last week brought us possibly one of the most unedifying sights possible - the Conservative Party cosying up to estate agents. They have joined forces to slate the new government initiative to improve the house-buying process - home information packs (HIPs).

The battle lines are drawn. On one side is deputy prime minister John Prescott. On the other is Kirstie Allsopp, the Location, Location, Location presenter better known for swooshing round properties in search of the perfect pad for hapless house hunters.

Latest broker research from the Intermediary Mortgage Lenders Association (IMLA) has shown intermediaries' business volumes may be adversely by the introduction of home information packs (HIPs).