The world of property comes with its fair share of jargon, and some of it can affect your sale in serious ways. One term that often causes confusion and frustration is “gazundering”. But what does it mean, and more importantly, how can you protect yourself from it?
How do you define gazundering?
Gazundering happens when a buyer lowers their offer just before the exchange of contracts. You may have verbally agreed on a sale price weeks earlier, but as the legal process nears completion, the buyer tries to renegotiate — often betting that you’re too invested in the move to walk away.
While frustrating, gazundering is not uncommon. It can be driven by market changes, survey findings, or even tactical negotiation.
Need help navigating the sale process? Get a free valuation and expert advice from your local Newton Fallowell branch.
Gazumping vs gazundering
You’ve probably heard of gazumping, when a seller accepts a higher offer from a new buyer after already agreeing a sale. Gazundering is its reverse: the buyer is the one changing the deal.
Both practices are legal in England and Wales, but can lead to stress, delays, or collapsed sales.
Is gazundering illegal?
No — gazundering is not illegal. Until contracts are exchanged, nothing is legally binding in the UK property market. This leaves room for renegotiation, whether it’s in good faith (for example, after a survey reveals issues) or purely strategic.
That said, gazundering is considered bad practice and can damage reputations, especially in a tight-knit local market.
How can you avoid gazundering?
There’s no guaranteed way to stop it, but there are a few smart steps you can take to reduce the risk.
Be honest and communicative
Start the process with transparency — about the property’s condition, timelines, and your own expectations. Buyers are less likely to feel justified in lowering their offer if they feel you’ve been upfront from the beginning.
Act as quickly as possible
Delays give buyers time to reconsider or look for reasons to reduce their offer. Keep things moving by responding to legal queries quickly and staying on top of paperwork.
Our conveyancing service can help you progress your sale efficiently.
Opt for a chain-free buyer
Buyers who aren’t relying on selling their own property tend to be more committed. If you have a choice of offers, chain-free buyers may be a safer bet — even if their offer is slightly lower.
Confirm dates and timelines
Try to agree on target dates for surveys, contract exchange, and completion early in the process. While not legally binding, clear expectations can keep all parties aligned.
Work closely with your estate agents
Your estate agent can act as a buffer if negotiations get tense — and will help spot any warning signs of gazundering tactics.
Find your local Newton Fallowell branch to speak to an experienced sales expert.
Be prepared with your finances and documentation
Buyers are less likely to take advantage if they know you’re in control and ready to complete. Have your ID, title deeds, and solicitor details ready from the start.
Do you need help selling your home?
At Newton Fallowell, we’ve helped thousands of sellers move on with confidence — even in tricky markets. Our local experts know how to keep sales moving smoothly and protect you from common pitfalls like gazundering.
Get started with a valuation or read our guide on gazumping for more help on navigating the moving process.
