This question comes up a-lot. You have been viewing properties for a while, you find a house or flat that you like and you put in an offer and the offer is accepted. However, a property has just come on the market that you like more! or at least you think you like more and you are considering viewing it. Because at the end of the day, you want to make sure you get the perfect house for yourself and/or family. The question is “should I view other properties, even though I am currently in the process of buying a house”
At the time of writing you are well within your rights to do what you want. But consider this, would you like the seller of the house you are buying to still allow viewings of the property you have had an offer accepted on? I think the answer for all of us is “No!”. as this would potentially allow gazumping on your offer.
Its unethical not illegal
If you view a property on the market that is with the estate agent you a currently buying from, you put at risk the house you have already secured as the estate agent is well within their right to advise the seller that you are still viewing other properties. An estate agent would do this because they have an obligation to their client and they want to ensure their clients best interest as well as their own. Most estate agents make money on the sale of a property so its more beneficial for estate agents to have a strong house chain. Viewing other properties would show the estate agents you aren’t serious about the purchase, raising concern.
should I view other properties, even though I am currently in the process of buying a house?
Wondering thoughts
Why it matters
Regardless of what we preach on ChainGuard, Some people will do what’s best for themselves regardless of the consequences of others, even good people. Buying a house is a big commitment & sometimes you only get one shot, it is understandable that you want what’s best. Consider however that you put in jeopardy buying a house you like, even if you get an offer accepted on the newer property you might like better, it does not mean you will be successful in purchasing the house. You could waste time & money and end up still looking for that dream home.
Our advise is don’t put an offer on a house unless you are absolutely sure you want to buy it. Once you have decided to buy stop looking at the market. The grass isn’t always greener on the other side.