When you’ve made it to the offer stage, it can feel like you’re nearly over the finish line. However, even once an offer is accepted, there are a number of points where the sale can fall apart.
With our deep-rooted knowledge of the Essex and Hertfordshire property market, we know exactly how to help our clients reduce the risk of a sale collapsing. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key points where things can go wrong — and what you can do to stay in control.
Why do house sales fall through?
While every sale is different, most fall-throughs happen due to a few common reasons.
Before the offer becomes legally binding
This is the riskiest stage of a sale. In England and Wales, a sale doesn’t become legally binding until contracts are exchanged.
During the legal process (conveyancing)
Once the buyer has instructed a solicitor and the legal work begins, problems can surface that weren’t initially obvious.
After contracts are exchanged
Although rare, sales can still fall through after exchange, but at this point, pulling out usually comes with penalties.
How to protect your sale
Get your paperwork in order early
Speak to your solicitor as soon as your home goes on the market. They will help ensure your documents to sell a property are all in order.
Choose a well-connected local agent
At Mullucks, we stay in close contact with buyers, sellers, and solicitors, helping move things forward at each step.
Vet your buyer
A good agent will check that your buyer is in a strong position.
Stay responsive and informed
Buyers can lose confidence quickly if they feel the sale is dragging.
What happens if your sale does fall through?
If the worst does happen, it’s not the end of the road. Understanding where things can go wrong — and how to stay ahead of them — puts you in the best position to succeed.
Need guidance on selling your home in Essex, Hertfordshire, or beyond? Explore our Mullucks property selling advice or get in touch for expert help at every stage.
