Why an Accepted Offer Isn’t the Finish Line

An accepted offer can feel like the finish line, but in reality it’s only the start of another journey.

Until contracts are exchanged, sellers can still pull out, accept a higher offer, or get delayed by the chain they’re in. Buyers often find themselves stuck in limbo, waiting for updates that never come, or discovering too late that the house isn’t quite what they thought it was.

Tip: When you make an offer, ask that the property be taken off the market. This shows your commitment and helps prevent the seller from chasing higher bids.

It’s tempting to rush ahead once an offer is accepted, especially when emotions are high. But this is the stage where slowing down pays off.

Tip: Take time to research the area, make sure the property truly suits your needs, and prepare for the possibility that things won’t move as smoothly as you hope.

Sometimes it’s better to pause and gather the right information than to push forward and regret it later.

The truth is, an accepted offer doesn’t guarantee security.

The best way to approach this part of the journey is to stay flexible, keep a realistic timeline, and have a backup plan in case the sale falls through.

It’s not about expecting the worst, just recognising that until you’ve exchanged, anything can change.