02/06/2026
I am sharing recent findings from the Open Property Data Association: 58% of UK property sales collapse after an offer is accepted, with an average cost of about £2,830 per failed sale and an estimated national cost of £2 billion annually. These failures produce both financial loss and significant emotional strain, particularly for older buyers and sellers.
At RI Building Surveying we emphasise early, clear communication and practical steps to reduce risk: obtain mortgage approval in principle, request pre-sale surveys, be transparent about circumstances, and maintain regular contact with solicitors and agents. Our surveys combine drone and thermal inspection where appropriate, and we deliver RICS-standard reports written in plain language so clients can see urgent issues and estimated costs clearly.
If you are buying or selling in Cheshire, Chester, Northwich or nearby North Wales, consider a pre-sale or homebuyer survey to reduce the chance of a sale collapsing. We aim to help clients make informed decisions with minimal stress. Discuss your case with us: read the full article and practical checklist via the link below. 🔍🏠
The UK housing market faces a significant challenge: a large number of house sales collapse even after an offer is accepted. Recent research by the Open Property Data Association reveals that 58% of property sales fall through at this late stage. This issue not only causes financial losses but also....