What Does It Mean When a House Is Under Offer

When a house is described as "under offer" in the UK property market, it means that the seller has accepted an offer from a buyer, but the sale has not yet been legally finalised. It is an important stage in the home buying process, sitting between the initial offer and the formal exchange of contracts. Although the property is no longer being actively marketed, the deal is still subject to various legal and financial checks.

This status helps to indicate to other potential buyers that someone else is in the process of purchasing the home, though the property may still be available in certain circumstances. It also highlights that the transaction is progressing, but there is still a chance it could fall through before contracts are exchanged.

What Happens After a Property Goes Under Offer?

Once a property is under offer, the buyer and seller begin the legal conveyancing process. The buyer arranges for a survey, secures their mortgage offer, and instructs a solicitor to carry out searches and raise enquiries. The seller’s solicitor prepares the draft contract and supplies property documentation, including title deeds and information about boundaries, fixtures and legal obligations.

This stage can take several weeks or even months, depending on the complexity of the transaction, the responsiveness of both parties and whether there is a chain involved. During this time, the buyer may still withdraw without penalty if something concerning is revealed during surveys or legal checks.

Is 'Under Offer' the Same as 'Sold Subject to Contract'?

While often used interchangeably, there is a subtle difference between "under offer" and "sold subject to contract" (SSTC). "Under offer" typically refers to the period immediately after an offer has been accepted but before any formal paperwork is completed. "Sold subject to contract" generally indicates that solicitors are involved and contracts are being prepared.

In practice, both terms mean the sale is not yet legally binding. Only once contracts are exchanged is the sale considered legally committed.

Can You Still View or Offer on a Property That Is Under Offer?

Yes, it is possible. A property under offer is not off the market in legal terms. Until contracts are exchanged, the seller is not legally obliged to complete the sale with the current buyer. This means they can still accept viewings or even a higher offer from another buyer. This is known as gazumping, and while frustrating for buyers, it is legal in England and Wales.

Estate agents often continue to accept interest in case the sale falls through. However, many sellers choose not to entertain further offers once they have accepted one, especially if they want a smooth and fair process.

Can a Sale Fall Through After a Property Is Under Offer?

Yes. Being under offer does not guarantee that the sale will complete. Transactions can fall through for many reasons, including poor survey results, issues uncovered in legal searches, mortgage refusals, or changes in circumstances for either party. If either the buyer or seller pulls out before exchange, there are usually no legal penalties, although costs already incurred such as surveys and solicitor fees are typically non-refundable.

This is why many buyers and sellers only feel confident once contracts are exchanged, which legally commits both parties to the sale and sets a fixed completion date.

Conclusion

When a house is under offer in the UK, it means an offer has been accepted but the sale is not yet legally binding. It marks the beginning of the legal and financial checks that lead to exchange of contracts. While it indicates progress, it does not guarantee completion, and other offers can still be considered until contracts are exchanged. Understanding what under offer means helps both buyers and sellers navigate this uncertain but crucial phase of the property transaction with greater clarity and confidence.