Should I Withdraw my Property following an Offer?

After Accepting an Offer: When to Withdraw Your Southend Property from the Market

One of the most common questions we hear as Southend estate agents is: "Should we take our property off the market now we've accepted an offer?" The answer isn't simple - it depends on your buyer's position and your appetite for risk.

The Ethical Dilemma

• Keeping your home on the market suggests you might accept a higher offer (gazumping)
• This can damage trust with your current buyer
• However, 41% of property chains collapse (NAEA) - so is one offer enough?

The Risks of Playing the Market

1. Gazumping Backfires
   • New buyers often regret overpaying and may later reduce their offer (gazundering)
   • Our experience shows the first serious offer is usually the best
2. When Staying On Market Makes Sense
   • If your buyer has:
     ✅ No mortgage agreement in principle
     ✅ A property to sell first (linked chain)
     ✅ No deposit proof

Our Southend Estate Agent Recommendation
The smart compromise:

1. Request proof of funds and mortgage agreement
2. Set a 2-week deadline to remove from market once checks complete
3. Maintain viewings until exchange if the buyer's position is weak

"A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush - especially in Southend's competitive market."
Unsure what to do? Our Southend property experts will advise based on your buyer's strength and local market conditions.