The firm is hiring to cope with the increase in demand for HIP providers after Rightmove announced its intention to discontinue their investment in HIPs.
Ashley King, managing director of Simply HIP, said: "Rightmove's decision to withdraw from the market, which I'm sure was for sound business reasons as they relate to its particular circumstances, offers us a huge opportunity which we are grasping with both hands."
It would appear that Rightmove's decision is partly based on the fact that potential earnings from HIPs are likely to be significantly lower as a result of the recent government announcement that the Home Condition Report (HCR) is no longer going to be mandatory from 1 June 2007.
Consumers will have a choice of whether or not to include the HCR as part of the pack. King believes the uplift in cost is likely to be only in the region of £100 - £150 and those with nothing to hide will see the advantage of including the report.
King said: "A two phased approach for the introduction of HIPs was always preferable and the government's decision to make the inclusion of the HCR voluntary during the initial stage is justified. It gives the industry and the consumer the ideal platform from which to experience an improved new way of buying and selling a home.
"The introduction of HIPs is probably the biggest shake up of the residential property market ever, but the opportunity for speedier transactions, greater transparency and the reduction in the number of sales to fall through has never been greater.
"Simply HIP is committed 100 per cent to the proposed HIP programme and timetable."
