Securing Your Property Sale: How to Avoid Last-Minute Setbacks

Securing Your Property Sale: How to Avoid Last-Minute Setbacks

You’ve done it — your home is under offer, contracts exchanged, and you’re mentally unpacking boxes in your new place. But then — the buyer pulls out. Suddenly, you’re back to square one. It’s a frustrating reality in the UK housing market, where last-minute setbacks can derail even the most carefully managed sales.

So how do you secure your property sale and ensure a smooth path to completion? Here’s your practical, jargon-free guide.

1. Choose the Right Buyer, Not Just the Highest Offer

While it’s tempting to go with the highest bid, it’s not always the safest route. Before accepting an offer, ask:

• Is the buyer in a property chain?
• Do they have a mortgage agreement in principle?
• Are they working with an experienced solicitor?

A buyer with solid financials and fewer dependencies is often a better bet. Selecting the right buyer is the first step in securing your property sale.

2. Use a Property Sale Guarantee for Peace of Mind

One way to mitigate risk is to put a property sale guarantee in place. Services like ClozeSure offer a unique completion safety net: if your buyer fails to complete after exchange, ClozeSure steps in and purchases your property at the full agreed sale price. It’s like a backup parachute for your transaction.

This option is especially useful if:

• You’ve already committed to another purchase
• You’re in a time-sensitive situation (e.g. relocating for work)
• You simply don’t want the stress of a chain collapse

3. Consider a Reservation Agreement to Lock In Commitment

A reservation agreement is a legal contract that both buyer and seller sign, usually before exchange. It commits both parties to proceed with the sale — and often includes a non-refundable deposit to discourage withdrawals.

Benefits include:

• Reducing the chance of gazumping or gazundering
• Adding financial consequences to pulling out without reason
• Increasing buyer confidence that you're serious too

Some estate agents and platforms now offer reservation agreements as part of their premium service.

Including this step can provide further assurance and bolster your completion safety net.

4. Keep Momentum After Exchange

Once contracts are exchanged, don’t sit back and relax just yet. Stay in touch with your solicitor and agent to ensure things are progressing:

• Are all lender requirements met?
• Have funds been requested by the buyer’s solicitor?
• Is the completion date locked in with all parties?

Timely communication helps avoid last-minute setbacks and reinforces your ability to secure your property sale

5. Have a Contingency Plan Ready

Despite best efforts, delays and surprises can happen. Prepare by asking:

• Can you extend your mortgage or temporary rental if needed?
• Do you have access to short-term housing options?
• Is your onward seller flexible on timelines?

Planning for these scenarios will reduce stress and help you manage any unexpected bumps in the road.

Final Word

To truly secure your property sale, take action early. Vet your buyer. Consider legal safeguards like reservation agreements and a property sale guarantee for the ultimate completion safety net. And above all, stay proactive throughout the process.

No sale is ever completely risk-free — but with the right strategy, you can avoid last-minute setbacks and keep your move on track.