04/06/2026
New research from the Open Property Data Association shows that 58% of UK property sales collapse after an offer has been accepted; on average costing the buyer and seller around £2,830 in lost fees - surveys, legal work, mortgage costs.
One in six fall through after four months.
One in ten collapse after five months or more.
By which time most people have paid out money and wasted emotional energy. A good number of chains collapse because something material about the property or affordability surfaces late.
Choosing the right agent to help you move is key. Don’t choose the cheapest fee or the highest valuation, choose the agent with a strong understanding of conveyancing, one who is an excellent communicator, one with local contacts to help fix problems and a proactive approach to managing your transaction.