Property technology firm iamproperty, which pioneered the modern method of auction (MMA), has become the latest member of the Open Property Data Association (OPDA).
Founded by Ben Ridgway and Jamie Cooke in 2009, the Newcastle-based business is a fast-growing proptech, with around 7,000 estate agents across the UK using its digital solutions to support the buying, selling and lettings processes.
The firm has championed the sharing of data across the property sector, collaborating with other firms in the Smart Property Data Trust Framework sandbox and hackathon events hosted by OPDA and the Digital Property Market Steering Group.
Chris Watson, head of data and insights at iamproperty, said: “From day one, iamproperty’s mission has been to improve the broken homebuying process.
“We’re passionate about making the property transaction process faster, simpler and more transparent for everyone involved, and we’ve seen first-hand the power of collaboration in driving meaningful industry change.
“Joining OPDA as a member is a natural next step for us. We are committed to supporting the development and adoption of open property data standards that can help reduce friction in the home moving process and deliver better outcomes for consumers and property professionals alike.”
OPDA’s growing network includes all six major high street banks, along with building societies, conveyancers, estate agents, technology providers and other property professionals.
The shared aim of members is to support the adoption of open property data standards and accelerate digital transformation in home buying and selling transactions.
Maria Harris, chair of OPDA, said: “We’re delighted to welcome iamproperty to OPDA at such an important time for the industry.
“Chris and the team have already made a valuable contribution through their involvement in the sandbox programme and hackathons, demonstrating a genuine commitment to innovation and industry collaboration.
“As we continue to work with industry and government to accelerate the digital transformation of the property market, having organisations like iamproperty actively engaged in the development of open property data standards is incredibly important. We look forward to working together to create a faster, more transparent and more connected home buying and selling process.”
