What Does Sold Subject to Contract Mean?
When a property is marked as Sold Subject to Contract, it means:
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An offer has been accepted by the seller
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The property is no longer being actively marketed
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The sale has not yet become legally binding
At this stage, no contracts have been exchanged, so either party can still withdraw without legal penalty.
Is a Property Legally Sold at This Point?
No.
A property only becomes legally binding once contracts are exchanged by both solicitors. Until then:
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The buyer can pull out
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The seller can pull out
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The agreed price can still change
This period between offer acceptance and exchange of contracts is known as the conveyancing process.
What Happens After a Property Goes SSTC?
Once a sale is agreed, the following steps usually take place:
1. Solicitors Are Instructed
Both buyer and seller formally instruct solicitors to begin the legal work.
2. Surveys & Valuations
The buyer arranges a mortgage valuation and, if desired, a homebuyer or structural survey.
3. Legal Searches
The buyer’s solicitor carries out searches such as local authority, drainage, and environmental checks.
4. Mortgage Offer Issued
If the buyer is using a mortgage, the lender issues a formal mortgage offer.
5. Enquiries Raised & Answered
Solicitors raise questions about the property, title, boundaries, planning, and any issues uncovered.
6. Exchange of Contracts
Once everything is agreed, contracts are exchanged and the sale becomes legally binding.
7. Completion
The remaining funds are transferred and the keys are released.
Can a Sale Fall Through After Being SSTC?
Unfortunately, yes. Common reasons include:
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A poor survey result
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Mortgage issues or down-valuations
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Problems revealed during legal searches
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A change in personal circumstances
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Gazumping (seller accepting a higher offer)
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Gazundering (buyer lowering their offer late in the process)
This is why experienced estate agents focus heavily on buyer qualification and chain management.
What Does SSTC Mean for Sellers?
For sellers, Sold Subject to Contract means:
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You have a committed buyer (subject to checks)
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Marketing usually stops
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You should instruct a solicitor promptly
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You should remain flexible until exchange
It’s important to remember that nothing is guaranteed until contracts are exchanged, so proactive communication and realistic timescales are key.
What Does SSTC Mean for Buyers?
For buyers, SSTC means:
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Your offer has been accepted
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You should move quickly with surveys, mortgage applications, and legal work
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You can still renegotiate if genuine issues arise
However, you should avoid booking removals or giving notice on rented accommodation until contracts are exchanged.
How Long Does a Property Stay Sold Subject to Contract?
On average, a property remains SSTC for 8–12 weeks, though this can vary depending on:
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The length of the chain
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Mortgage requirements
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Search turnaround times
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Complexity of the title
How We Help Reduce Fall-Throughs
At James Dean, we work hard to minimise the risk of sales falling through by:
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Thoroughly qualifying buyers before accepting offers
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Liaising closely with solicitors and mortgage brokers
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Actively managing chains
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Keeping communication clear and regular
Our proactive approach helps ensure sales progress smoothly from offer to completion.
Final Thoughts
Sold Subject to Contract is a positive milestone — but it’s not the finish line. Understanding what it means helps buyers and sellers manage expectations and avoid unnecessary stress.
If you’re buying or selling and want clear, honest advice at every stage, we’re always happy to help.
Thinking of selling your home or have questions about the buying process? Get in touch with your local James Dean office for expert, no?pressure advice.
