When asked about the effects of a collapsed sale or purchase, 43% cited emotional stress as the primary impact, while 41% said their plans were significantly delayed. The effects were most pronounced among older movers, with nearly six in 10 (59%) of those aged 55 and over reporting high levels of emotional stress.
The findings come as the housing market faces ongoing pressure from higher interest rates, tighter affordability conditions and extended transaction timelines — all of which increase the likelihood of deals failing before completion.
“These figures lay bare a housing market that is failing consumers at every stage,” said Maria Harris (pictured right), chair of the Open Property Data Association. “Far too many transactions collapse because crucial information only comes to light weeks or even months after an offer is made. By then, buyers and sellers have already invested significant time, money and emotional energy.
“Providing upfront, standardised property data through digital property packs would transform this process. When material information is available at the point of listing, buyers can make informed decisions, issues can be identified early, and far fewer transactions fall apart late in the process.
“Upfront property data isn’t about adding bureaucracy, it’s about bringing transparency, certainty and trust back into the housing market. By embracing digital property packs, we can reduce fall throughs, shorten transaction times and create a fairer, more resilient system that works for everyone.”
