Accepting an offer on your home is not just about the headline figure.
In many cases, the best buyer is the one most likely to reach completion smoothly and on time. With a significant number of property transactions falling through each year, asking the right questions early can save a great deal of stress later on.
While buyers often arrive with plenty of questions for sellers, experienced agents know that a successful move requires clarity on both sides.
Here are nine questions a serious buyer should be able to answer clearly and confidently.
1. How is the purchase being funded?
A strong buyer should be able to explain whether they are using cash, a mortgage or a combination of both, without hesitation.
2. Do they have a property to sell?
If so, it is important to understand the position. Is their home already on the market, under offer, or yet to be listed?
3. When was their property listed?
A property that has been on the market for a long time can introduce risk, particularly if multiple price reductions have already taken place.
4. Is there a property chain involved?
Shorter chains are generally more reliable and less prone to delays or complications.
5. Do they have a mortgage agreed in principle?
Most committed buyers will already have an agreement in principle in place before making an offer.
6. When does the mortgage offer expire?
Knowing this helps identify whether time pressure could affect the transaction further down the line.
7. Are there any fixed deadlines?
School places, job relocations or rental notice periods can all influence how flexible a buyer really is.
8. Do they have a solicitor instructed?
Buyers who have already appointed a solicitor are often better prepared to move quickly once terms are agreed.
9. Do they understand what being a cash buyer actually means?
A genuine cash buyer has funds available now, not once another sale completes or an asset is released.
Making the right decision
The highest offer is not always the strongest one. A slightly lower figure from a well prepared buyer can often result in a faster and more secure sale.
An experienced local agent will help you look beyond price alone, assess each buyer’s position carefully and advise on the likelihood of a successful completion.
If you are selling in Thetford in 2026 and want clear, practical guidance on choosing the right buyer for your home, our team is always happy to help.
Article by Andrew Overman | Partner | Location Location East
