One of the biggest misconceptions about property finding is that once the offer has been accepted, the hard work is over. It’s often only just begun! The period between agreeing an offer and exchange can be the biggest challenge and this is where experienced representation can really make a difference to the sale going through. This year I have dealt with two of the most challenging in my 35 years working in property. I’m delighted to say, both clients have now exchanged and are enjoying their new homes.
The first purchase became increasingly complicated as issues developed within the chain. Delays at multiple points created uncertainty, deadlines shifted and there was a genuine risk that the entire transaction would collapse. Clear and efficient communication between myself, the agents, my clients and solicitors became key, with a lot of thinking outside the box on the spot as issue after issue arose. All parties being pushed to their limits and ready to walk away. By keeping everyone focused on solutions rather than obstacles, we were able to keep the purchase on track until contracts finally exchanged. My clients are now enjoying their new life in Winchester in their lovely new family home.
The second purchase presented a different set of challenges. This was a very simple chain, my client was buying a probate property. However it turned out that the legal title was a complete mess – this meant that Land Registry kept coming back with query after query which delayed exchange for many months. We just couldn’t work out why it wasn’t a straightforward situation which is usually the case once probate has been granted. The sellers solicitors were not being transparent and were often misleading, we were being passed around several departments within the company and nobody was taking ownership. Our client was incredibly patient, however this was a very emotional move for her and it was getting to the point where it was really affecting her mental health. Once we had finally forced the truth out of the sellers solicitor, we, along with the agent, came up with a solution straight away and contracts exchanged within 48 hours. There is no question that this sale would not have gone through without our tenacity, and of course our clients patience. She is now very happy redesigning her new home and we celebrated over lunch in her new local pub in one of the prettiest villages in the New Forest.
This is without doubt one of the main areas we can really add value to your property search!