The short answer
Choose a buyer that gives you its full company details, shows proof of funds, puts its offer and any costs in writing, doesn't pressure you, and encourages independent legal advice. Be wary of late price cuts, upfront fees and long tie-in contracts.
Warning signs
- the offer drops sharply just before exchange, with no new information
- you are pressured to decide today or told the offer will disappear
- the firm says it's a cash buyer but can't show proof of funds
- you are asked to pay fees upfront, or fees aren't set out in writing
- you're tied into a long exclusive agreement you don't fully understand
- they discourage you from getting independent legal advice
- they won't give a full company name, number and address
Questions to ask any buyer
- What is your full company name, registered number and address?
- Are you buying with your own funds? Can you show proof?
- How did you calculate your offer, and can I have it in writing?
- Under what circumstances could the offer change before exchange?
- What costs will I pay, if any, and who pays the legal fees?
- Is there any exclusivity period or tie-in? How long?
- Are you a member of a trade body or redress scheme?
- Will you buy the property yourselves, or pass it on to someone else?
Lionsmead gives its full company details on every page, puts every offer and cost in writing, and recommends independent legal advice before you agree anything. We do not offer sale and rent back.
Common questions
Are quick house sale companies legitimate?
Many are, but standards vary. The Office of Fair Trading found problems including low offers cut at the last minute, pressure selling and firms claiming to be cash buyers when they were not. Check who you're dealing with before you agree anything.
What is the National Association of Property Buyers?
The NAPB is a voluntary trade body for property buying companies. Members must register with The Property Ombudsman and follow its code of practice, which prohibits aggressive selling and requires special care for vulnerable sellers.
Should I pay any fees upfront?
Be very cautious about paying anything upfront. Ask for every cost in writing before you agree, and check what happens if the sale doesn't go ahead.
How do I know if an offer is fair?
Get an independent view of your home's market value, for example from a RICS-registered surveyor or several local estate agents, and compare. Ask the buyer to explain in writing how they reached their figure.
Does Lionsmead offer sale and rent back?
No. Lionsmead does not offer sale and rent back.
Want to discuss your options in confidence?
A short, no-obligation call. If a direct sale isn't right for you, we'll say so.
Sources
- Property Industry Eye: OFT report and the launch of the NAPB
- The Property Ombudsman: code of practice for property buyers
- MoneyHelper: free, impartial money guidance
General information, not legal, tax or financial advice. Checked and last updated 29 October 2026.