Contracts on House - Delay

Hi all

I'm in the process of buying a house. Put down booking deposit last september and have been waiting for contract since. The house is now been fitted and i want to make alterations to the standard fittings which will cost me money but as i haven't signed a contract i'm feeling a bit nervous about it all.

Any advice, i would have thought builders are usual eager to get money off you and hence would have sorted contracts at this stage.

There is no binding contract in place until one is signed by both parties, exchanged and the agreed deposit is paid. You're right to be nervous.

There could be a number of reasons : some acceptable , some worrying.
1. There could be title problems.
2. Planning issues.
3. Internal disputes in the Building Company.
4. Holding off to see if any appreciation in price to sell at higher price to you or someone else.

It is a tough world for purchasers when you cannot work out what is happening. I think all you can do is keep pressing for contracts and try adn find out what the reason for the delay is.

mf