How Long After a Viewing Should You Expect an Offer?

As someone who has gone through the process of buying property, you know that waiting for an offer can be one of the most nerve-wracking experiences. You may be checking your email every few minutes or wondering if something is wrong with the property you viewed.

This experience could leave you wondering, how long after a viewing should you expect an offer?

In this insight, we'll go over the factors that can affect how long after a viewing to expect an offer, realistic timelines for receiving an offer, reasons for delayed offers after a viewing, how to handle multiple offers and negotiations, what to do if you haven't received an offer after the expected timeframe, and tips for speeding up the offer process.

Key Takeaways:

• The timing of receiving an offer after a viewing varies and depends on factors such as property type, location, and market conditions.
• Delays in offers can occur due to potential buyers conducting research, waiting for mortgage approval, or addressing property issues.
• Handling multiple offers involves informing all parties and setting a deadline for their best offers to create urgency and potentially secure higher offers.
• If you haven't received an offer within the expected timeframe, follow up with potential buyers, consider adjustments to your property listing, and seek professional advice to speed up the process.

How Long After A Viewing Should You Expect An Offer?

There are no set rules to when you must submit offers by unless you as the seller choose there to be. Some offers will come in on the same day, and some will come days later. Expect there will also be people who look for a second viewing before making an offer and this may delay how long you can expect to wait.

Factors That Can Affect How Long After a Viewing To Expect an Offer

One of the first things to consider is the type of property you viewed. If it's a highly desirable property in a sought-after location, you may receive an offer within hours. However, if the property is in a less desirable location or requires significant work, it may take longer for an offer to come through. Another factor to consider is the current state of the property market. If it's a buyer's market, there may be more competition, which could lead to longer wait times for an offer.

Additionally, the time of year can also impact how long you'll have to wait for an offer. For example, if you're looking to sell or rent a property during the Christmas holidays or Easter, you may experience longer wait times as people are typically focused on other priorities during this time.

Realistic Timelines For Receiving An Offer After a Viewing

While there is no set timeline for receiving an offer after viewing, there are some general guidelines you can follow. For example, if you're selling a property, you may receive an offer within a few days of the viewing. If you do not receive an offer from your viewers after a week or so, and no communication, you probably won't be getting one. However, it's important to note that these are just guidelines, and it's possible to receive an offer sooner or later than expected.

If you're working with an estate agent, they may be able to give you a more accurate estimate of how long you can expect to wait for an offer based on their experience in the industry and the current state of the property market.

Reasons For Delayed Offers After a Viewing

There are several reasons why you may experience a delay in receiving an offer after a viewing. One common reason is that the potential buyer or renter may be conducting further research or viewing other properties before making a decision. Another reason could be that they're waiting for financing to be approved or for their current lease to expire before making an offer.

It's also possible that there may be issues with the property that are preventing people from making an offer. For example, if there are significant repairs that need to be made, this may deter potential buyers or renters from making an offer until these issues are addressed.

How to Handle Multiple Offers and Negotiations

If you're fortunate enough to receive multiple offers after a viewing, it's important to handle the situation carefully. One approach is to inform all parties that you've received multiple offers and give them a deadline to submit their best offer. This can create a sense of urgency and may result in higher offers.

When it comes to negotiations, it's important to be clear about your expectations and the conditions of the sale or rental. This includes any repairs or improvements that need to be made, the expected move-in or move-out date, and any other important details.

What To Do If You Haven't Received An Offer After the Expected Timeframe

If you haven't received an offer after the expected timeframe, it's important to stay patient and persistent. One approach is to follow up with potential buyers to see if there's anything preventing them from making an offer. This can help you identify any issues with the property or sale that you may need to address.

You may also want to consider making adjustments to the property listing or advertising to generate more interest. This could include highlighting the property's unique features or offering incentives to potential buyers or renters.

Tips For Speeding Up The Offer Process

If you're looking to speed up the offer process, there are several things you can do. One approach is to make sure the property is in good condition and is presented in the best possible light. This includes cleaning and organising the space, making any necessary repairs, and staging the property to showcase its potential.

Another approach is to work with an estate agent who has experience in the industry and can help you navigate the process. They may have connections with potential buyers or renters and can help you find the right match for your property.

Next steps

Waiting for an offer after a viewing can be a nerve-wracking experience, but it's important to stay patient and persistent. There are several factors that can impact how long you'll have to wait, including the type of property, the current state of the property market, and the time of year.

For more information on the mortgage timeline, read our insight: How long does a mortgage application take?

If you are moving forward with your property sale and purchase, but are unsure where to get started with mortgage advice, complete the Sunny Fact Find. The information you provide us helps to find the best-suited adviser for your needs. Your adviser contacts you to discuss how they can help. You decide how to proceed.

To summarise the question, how long after a viewing should you expect an offer, there are no set times, but interested parties are likely to make an offer within the same week.