The Benefits of Allowing Viewings
Greater Exposure, Greater Opportunity
The more viewers you have, the better your chances of finding the ideal buyer. Even viewers who haven't yet sold their property could become motivated to move faster once they've seen—and fallen in love with—your home.
Buyers May Be More Ready Than You Think
Not all buyers without completed sales are financially unprepared. Some might have already accepted an offer or have alternative financial arrangements like bridging loans or savings that enable them to move forward swiftly.
Securing Future Buyers
If your property attracts attention from buyers who aren’t quite ready today, maintaining communication could pay off when they are in a stronger buying position soon.
Things to Consider Before Proceeding
Assess Their Readiness to Proceed
It's crucial to understand the buyer’s selling position. If their home isn't yet on the market or hasn't attracted offers, their readiness to proceed could be uncertain, possibly delaying your sale.
Potential for Delay
Accepting an offer from someone who hasn’t sold yet may slow down your own moving process. This could be challenging, especially if you’re in a property chain or have a strict timeline.
Commitment Concerns
Buyers without the urgency of a completed sale can sometimes reconsider their decision, causing uncertainty and potential disappointment later down the line.
How to Effectively Manage These Viewings
Clarify the Buyer’s Position:
Always ask about the buyer’s current selling situation. Are they already marketing their home? Have they received any offers? Can they fund the purchase without selling first?
Prioritise Fully Proceedable Buyers:
If multiple buyers express interest, consider giving priority to those in the best position to move forward swiftly.
Set Clear Expectations:
Make it clear to buyers who haven’t sold yet that while viewings are welcome, priority may be given to proceedable offers.
Consider Conditional Offers:
If a buyer who hasn't sold wants to make an offer, you might set specific conditions, such as a timeframe for them to secure a buyer before you fully commit.
Final Thoughts
Allowing viewings from buyers who haven't sold their home yet isn’t necessarily risky, provided you manage expectations and are clear about your priorities. Your estate agent can provide valuable guidance tailored to your individual goals and timeline, helping you navigate the selling process smoothly and confidently.