A multi-disciplinary organisation for independent property professionals is to launch next month, in a bid to counteract the lobbying power of large corporate players in relation to home information packs (HIPs).

Per Pro - which will be headed by Michael Garson, former Law Society Council member for residential conveyancing - will be open to solicitors, estate agents and surveyors.


The group will provide a forum to discuss issues relating to HIPs and will put forward the views to government. It will also provide an opportunity for professionals to find potential merger partners.


Mr Garson said: 'The large corporate players and the back-office pack providers have the ear of government and will lobby to enable them to operate successfully in the property market. Small and independent businesses who in practice look after relationships with home buyers and sellers need a voice to ensure that the playing field is level, and that choices offered to the consumer have real value.'


He added: 'As much as 30% of the market could disappear from the high street, leaving gaps and financial ruin for hundreds of small firms.'