Gazumping happens when a seller accepts a higher offer from another buyer after already accepting yours, but before contracts have been exchanged.
Although it can be frustrating, gazumping is legal in England because an accepted offer isn’t legally binding until contracts have been exchanged.
Having an offer accepted doesn’t always mean the property is yours. Knowing how gazumping works can help you understand what happens before contracts are exchanged.
Why Does Gazumping Happen?
Gazumping usually happens because a seller receives another offer before the sale becomes legally binding.
This might be because another buyer has offered more money, is purchasing with cash or can complete more quickly. In some cases, a seller may simply prefer an offer from someone who appears to be in a stronger position to proceed.
While it can be disappointing, the seller is generally free to accept another offer until contracts have been exchanged.
Is Gazumping Legal?
Yes. In England, a seller can accept another offer at any point before contracts have been exchanged.
Even if your offer has been accepted, neither you nor the seller are legally committed to completing the sale until contracts have been exchanged. Up until that point, either party can decide not to continue with the purchase.
The process is different in Scotland, where accepted offers are generally formalised much earlier, making gazumping far less common.
When Can Gazumping Happen?
Gazumping can happen at any stage after your offer has been accepted but before contracts have been exchanged.
During this time, your solicitor will carry out the legal work, your mortgage lender will assess your application and any surveys or property searches will be completed.
As the purchase isn’t yet legally binding, another buyer can still make an offer on the property.
Once contracts have been exchanged, both the buyer and seller are legally committed to completing the sale.
What Happens if You’re Gazumped?
If the seller accepts another buyer’s offer instead of yours, you’ll need to decide whether you still want to pursue the property.
Some buyers choose to increase their offer if it remains within their budget, while others decide to continue searching for another home.
Before increasing your offer, it’s worth considering whether you’re still comfortable paying the higher price and whether the property still represents good value.
Although it can be frustrating, walking away is sometimes the right decision if paying more would put pressure on your finances.
What Can You Do if You’re Worried About Gazumping?
There’s no way to guarantee you won’t be gazumped, though being prepared can help your purchase progress more smoothly.
Before making an offer, it’s worth having your finances organised, choosing a solicitor, and responding quickly if any paperwork or information is requested.
Keeping in regular contact with your estate agent and solicitor can also help avoid unnecessary delays.
If you haven’t already, arranging an agreement in principle before you start making offers can also show sellers that you’re ready to proceed.
Making an Offer on a Property
Gazumping is one of several things that can happen between having an offer accepted and exchanging contracts.
While you can’t control every part of the process, understanding how it works can help you make informed decisions if your circumstances change.
If you’re buying your first home, our mortgage advisors can answer your questions before you begin your property search.
Date Last Edited: September 2, 2026
