At Richardsons, we believe estate agency is about far more than putting a property on the market - it’s about delivering results, protecting our clients’ interests, and seeing each sale through with integrity, precision, and care.
This philosophy was put to the test recently when we were asked to step in and help a frustrated seller in the popular Harbour Views development. After a previously agreed sale had fallen through due to poor buyer vetting by another agent, the seller’s onward purchase - their dream home - was hanging by a thread.
With time running out, Richardsons launched a strategic, hands-on campaign and secured a new, reliable buyer within 21 days*. Here’s how it happened.
The Problem: A Sale Collapsed, A Move in Jeopardy
The seller initially agreed their Harbour Views sale with another local agent. Things seemed to go well at first - an offer was agreed relatively quickly, and the seller, eager to move, began the process of purchasing their next home.
However, it soon became clear that the previous agent had failed to carry out even basic due diligence on the buyer. Few financial checks were completed, and the buyer's buyer wasn't even eligible for the mortgage that they had claimed.
Weeks passed without progress. Promises were made, and excuses followed. Eventually, the sale collapsed entirely - and the seller’s new purchase, already under pressure, was now in serious jeopardy.
Understandably disappointed and concerned, the seller came to Richardsons for a second opinion.
Our Approach: Clear Strategy, Immediate Action
From the moment the salwe collapsed, our priority was to restore confidence, rebuild momentum, and protect the chain - and that meant getting the property under offer again, fast.
We began with a detailed consultation and took time to understand not only the property but also the circumstances surrounding the previous failure. The seller needed more than just a new buyer - they needed a properly vetted, serious purchaser who could move at speed.
Here’s how we did it:
1. Honest Valuation and Realistic Pricing
The first step was to reassess the property’s position in the market. We provided an honest, data-backed valuation - not just to generate interest, but to attract the right kind of buyer: one who recognised the home’s value and was ready to act and - importantly - was proceedable.
Unlike the previous agent, who had marketed the property with little consideration for timing or buyer quality, our strategy was targeted and intentional.
2. Fresh Marketing to Reignite Interest
We quickly refreshed the marketing materials. Professional photography, carefully written descriptions, and floor plans were created to present the property in the best possible light. Our digital marketing team then relaunched the property across all major platforms, supported by a direct campaign to our database of pre-qualified buyers.
We also leveraged our social media channels and made personal calls to applicants actively looking in Harbour Views - an area in consistent demand but requiring careful positioning.
3. Stringent Buyer Vetting
This was non-negotiable. Every interested party was thoroughly vetted before viewings were even arranged. We asked the right questions: Is your property sold? Are your finances arranged? Can your solicitor act quickly?
This wasn’t just about speeding up the process - it was about protecting our client from going through the same thing twice.
Offer Agreed in 21 Days
Thanks to our proactive marketing and buyer screening process, the property attracted strong attention right from launch. Within a matter of days, we were conducting viewings with well-matched, motivated buyers.
And just 21 days after listing, a credible and financially qualified offer was accepted. This buyer had no related sale, had a solicitor in place, and was as keen to move forward as our client was.
The chain was back on track - and our client’s dream move was back within reach.
Lessons Learned: Why Proper Buyer Vetting Matters
This sale highlights something we see far too often - agents eager to claim they’ve “agreed a sale” without taking the time toqualify the buyer properly. It may look good in the short term, but when deals collapse (as they often do without due diligence), it’s the client who pays the price.
At Richardsons, we never rush to secure the wrong buyer. A fast sale means nothing if it’s not followed through. Our team follows a structured, professional process to ensure that every offer we present is not just attractive - but achievable.
Harbour Views: Desirable, But Demanding the Right Approach
The Harbour Views development remains one of the most attractive addresses in the area, with its coastal charm, modern homes, and excellent amenities. But with strong buyer demand comes higher expectations - and it takes a precise and proactive strategy to deliver results.
This success story proves what’s possible when that strategy is applied.
Thinking of Selling in Harbour Views or Beyond?
Whether you’ve been let down by another agent, or you’re just beginning to think about selling your home, speak to Richardsons first. We’ll give you straightforward advice, honest pricing, and a bespoke marketing plan - with no pressure, and no empty promises.
More importantly, we’ll ensure every buyer is properly vetted, every offer is fully qualified, and your sale is set up for success.
Richardsons. One property. One agent. One clear path to sale.
Another sale agreed in Harbour Views - done right.