Can Estate Agents Hide Offers? Here's What Every UK Based Buyer & Seller Should Know
When buying or selling a home in the UK knowing how offers are handled is vital. A common concern we hear at Avocado Property is: Can estate agents hide offers? Legally, no—but the reality can feel less clear. Here’s what you need to know to protect your move.
When you’re buying or selling a home in the UK, whether it’s a charming semi in Wokingham, a period property in Windsor, or a family home in Farnborough, understanding how offers work is crucial. One of the most common and quietly worrying questions we get asked at avocado property is this:
"Can estate agents hide offers from sellers?"
Short answer: Legally, no. But in reality, things can feel a little murkier. Let’s break it down.
The Law: What Estate Agents Must Do
Under the Estate Agents Act 1979, estate agents are legally obliged to pass all genuine offers to the seller promptly and in writing. No ifs, no buts.
The only exception? If the seller gives written instructions not to be informed about offers below a certain price. But this must be agreed upfront (and in all honesty is pretty rare!) One thing is for sure though, this is not to be decided on the fly by the agent.
So, technically speaking, agents can’t hide offers. But some may "filter" or delay communication based on assumptions about what the seller wants. This is where confusion creeps in.
Why Would an Agent Hide or Delay an Offer?
While hiding an offer is against the rules, selective communication or vague phrasing isn’t uncommon within UK based estate agency.
Sometimes it's unintentional. Agents may be prioritising what they believe is a "better" offer or think the seller wouldn't consider a low bid. Other times, it can be a pressure tactic to push other buyers higher.
Let’s be honest: estate agents work for the seller. But at avocado, we believe transparency is key to a smooth move, not just a fast sale.
The Order of How Offers Should Be Handled (UK Property Market)
Before you find yourself second-guessing what’s happening behind the scenes, it helps to understand the ideal process of how offers should be handled in a UK property transaction. While no two moves are exactly alike, this sequence provides a useful framework for both buyers and sellers to spot when something doesn’t feel quite right. From the first expression of interest to the property being marked as Sold Subject to Contract (SSTC), here’s how it should play out:
This process should be clear and consistent but always ask for confirmation in writing at each stage.
📈 Transparency in a Competitive Market
Let’s say you’re buying in Guildford, and the agent tells you, "There’s another strong offer on the table."
Sounds legit, right? But what if it’s just a vague way of pushing you to increase your bid?
Agents are not required to disclose offer amounts, nor are they obliged to provide proof of other offers. To this point, they also can’t lie as that would be fraud, but they don’t have to give you the full picture either.
That’s why it’s essential to work with professionals who know how to ask the right questions and interpret the subtext. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and get advice.
Our Advice to Buyers and Sellers in the Home Counties
Whether you’re upsizing in Bracknell, buying your first home in Basingstoke, or selling in Reading, here are our top tips:
- Always ask for written confirmation of offers and responses.
- Don’t be afraid to question vague language like "strong interest" or "another buyer in the wings."
- Keep your solicitor in the loop early so they can spot any red flags before things go south.
- Use a trusted mortgage broker who can advise on timing and budget flexibility.
And if you’re selling? Make your expectations clear with your agent about what offers you want to hear about and hold them to account around timings.
So... Can Estate Agents Hide Offers?
No. Not legally. But not all agents operate the same way. At avocado property, our property partners believe in full transparency, open dialogue and a reduced stress process where everyone knows where they stand.
If you're looking to buy or sell in the Home Counties and beyond and want to work with someone who treats your move like it matters (because it does), get in touch. We'll give you the real story, not just the polished sales pitch.
Want to get moving with an agent who works for you? Let's talk.