Common Problems
What happens if my purchase falls through?
Last reviewed: 3 October 2026
The brief answer
Until exchange, either side can withdraw. If a purchase falls through, you usually lose money already spent — for example, on searches, surveys and legal work done — but you can start again with a different property.
In plain English
Common reasons include chain problems, survey findings, down-valuations, a seller changing their mind or a buyer's finances changing.
Ask your solicitor what you owe for work done. Your AIP may still be usable, but a mortgage offer is linked to a specific property, so a new application will be needed.
It is disappointing, but common. Lessons from the first purchase often make the next one quicker.
Why it matters
Knowing the risk helps you decide when to spend money on surveys and legal work, and to keep a financial buffer.
What to do next
- 1Ask your solicitor for a final bill.
- 2Tell your mortgage adviser.
- 3Review your property brief and restart your search.
Checklist
- Solicitor informed
- Adviser informed
- Costs known
- Search restarted