How to Prevent a Sale from Falling Through (And What to Do If It Does)

Selling a home is exciting—until you get the dreaded news that your buyer has pulled out. Unfortunately, 1 in 4 sales fall through, often for reasons beyond your control. But don’t worry! There are ways to reduce the risk of a collapse and steps you can take if the worst happens.

How to Keep Your Sale on Track

1. Choose a Buyer Carefully

Not all buyers are created equal. A cash buyer or someone with a mortgage in principle is far less risky than someone just testing the waters. If you have multiple offers, don’t just focus on price—consider who’s most likely to follow through.

2. Use a ‘Committed Sale’ Scheme

Did you know it’s possible to tie buyers in from the start? Our Committed Sale Scheme ensures that once an offer is accepted, the buyer puts down a non-refundable deposit—making it much harder for them to back out without good reason.

3. Stay on Top of the Paperwork

Delays cause doubts. The longer the process drags on, the more time a buyer has to change their mind. Make sure your solicitor is proactive, and respond to any queries quickly to keep things moving.

4. Fix Issues Before They Become Deal Breakers

Surveys often reveal problems that send buyers running. If you suspect any potential red flags (like an outdated boiler or a dodgy roof), consider getting them checked before you even list your home.

What to Do If Your Sale Falls Through

Don’t panic—it’s frustrating, but it’s not the end of the road. Here’s how to bounce back quickly:

• Find out why it collapsed. Understanding the reason can help you avoid the same issue next time.
• Relist strategically. A fresh approach—like new marketing, better photos, or a different pricing strategy—can attract new interest.
• Consider a Committed Sale next time. Locking in the buyer from day one means you won’t have to go through this again!

Want a More Secure Sale? Let’s Talk.

If you’re looking for a smoother, more secure selling experience, let’s chat about how we can help. Your next buyer could be just around the corner!