Why Estate Agents Won’t Show You a Property Unless You’re “Proceedable” – And Why That’s a Good Thing

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When you’re browsing property listings and dreaming about your next home, it’s tempting to book in a few viewings "just to see what’s out there." But if you’re not yet in a position to move forward—what estate agents call “proceedable” - you might find your requests for viewings politely declined. And while that can feel frustrating, there’s actually a very good reason for it.

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What Does “Proceedable” Actually Mean?

Being proceedable simply means you’re in a position to buy a property now. That includes:

• Cash buyers – You have the funds readily available.

• Mortgage buyers with no property to sell – Maybe you’re a first-time buyer or renting.

• Buyers who are selling to fund their purchase – but already have a buyer in place (i.e., their own sale is agreed).

  
  

If you’re subject to selling your current home - but haven’t even put it on the market yet - you’re unfortunately not proceedable. And that makes a huge difference.

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Why Won't Estate Agents Show Me Properties?!

Here’s the honest truth: viewings take time, energy, and coordination—especially for homes that are occupied. Sellers are trusting agents to only show their home to serious, qualified buyers. If you’re not in a position to move forward with an offer, then from the agent’s and seller’s perspective, it’s premature.

Sellers Want Serious Buyers If you're not proceedable, you're not ready to make a serious offer. Sellers want viewers who could buy the home tomorrow if they fall in love with it. Someone who hasn’t even started the process of selling their own home simply can’t do that.

It Protects Your Own Expectations Imagine falling in love with a property, mentally moving in, picturing where the sofa will go—only to lose it to a buyer who was already proceedable. That’s not just disappointing, it can be disheartening. Viewing before you're ready can lead to heartbreak.

Estate Agents Work in the Seller’s Best Interest - Remember, agents are hired by the seller to sell their home. Their job is to filter out time-wasters and only introduce serious, proceedable buyers who can act quickly and confidently.

You Could Miss Out on the Property Anyway - If you do view the property, love it, but still need to list your own home, it could take weeks before you’re in a position to offer. By then? The property may well be gone.

If you’re genuinely planning to move, the smartest first step is to get yourself into a proceedable position:

• If you’re selling, get your current home on the market ASAP—ideally with a buyer already lined up.

• If you’re buying with a mortgage, get your Agreement in Principle sorted out and ensure your finances are in order.

• If you’re a cash buyer, be ready to provide proof of funds.

  
  

This puts you in a strong position—not just to view, but to offer, negotiate, and secure the home you want when you find it.

It’s not that estate agents don’t want to show you houses—it’s that they have to prioritise those who are ready to move. If you’re not yet proceedable, focus on getting to that stage first. Not only will it make agents take you seriously, it massively increases your chances of landing your dream home when you do find it.

So before you start booking viewings, ask yourself: if I loved it—could I actually buy it? If the answer’s no, start by sorting your current sale or finances.

Your future self (and your estate agent) will thank you.