A buyer recently tried to renegotiate an agreed purchase price from £1,360,000 to £1,200,000 shortly before exchange.

It’s the sort of message that can throw a sale off course if it’s handled in the usual way: panic, pass it straight on, and let the negotiation spiral.

What Influenced the Outcome

1. The renegotiation wasn’t treated as the default next step
   Rather than immediately relaying a reduced figure to the seller, the buyer was told that a material change at this stage could mean the sale is reopened to other interested parties.

2. Competitive pressure was kept in place
   The buyer was reminded that the property had attracted interest already, and that changing the deal late in the process can change the seller’s approach too.

3. Speed matters because alternatives expire
   The longer a transaction drags on, the less likely it is that earlier interested buyers are still available. A faster conveyancing timeline keeps options alive if a deal needs to be reset.

The Result

The buyer initially suggested they would escalate the issue but ultimately proceeded at the original agreed price.

The Bigger Point

We treat situations like this as a useful stress-test of the process.

We’re always refining how we handle the late stages of a sale so that sellers are protected without creating unnecessary friction for buyers who are acting in good faith.

Stats From This Week:

If you’re thinking of moving, or just want advice on your position, let’s chat. The right preparation makes all the difference.

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Warm regards,
The Carringtons Team

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