I put in an offer for a house which has been empty for a while and needs a considerable amount of work doing to it. I think the estate agent is obstructing the sale because he wants to buy it himself at a knock-down price. How can I find out if the vendor has been notified of my offer?
It’s an offence under the Estate Agents Act 1979 for an estate agent not to pass on an offer to a vendor. This must be done in writing unless the agent has been instructed not to pass on offers below a certain level. You could try to discover who owns the house through a little detective work, such as inquiring at neighbouring properties, and make a direct approach. If all else fails you could complain to the Property Ombudsman.