What does SSTC mean? - Richard Kendall Estate Agents

Having your offer accepted on a home is an achievement worth celebrating; but the hard work isn’t over yet. In fact, it’s just begun. As soon as a home is sold, it will be listed as ‘SSTC’, so let’s take a look at what this means and what comes next.

What does SSTC stand for?

‘SSTC’ means that the home has been ‘sold subject to contract’. The seller has accepted the offer, but the agreement is not yet legally binding. While a home is listed as SSTC, the buyer and seller are in the conveyancing process and this label will remain unchanged until the deal becomes legally binding. Until the point of exchange of contracts, both the seller and buyer can pull out of the sale without any legal repercussions.

What does SSTC mean for buyers?

SSTC means that the seller has accepted your offer and the conveyancing process can be started. Though it is only one of many obstacles to overcome before you arrive at the exchange of contracts, this is nevertheless a major step in the right direction.

What does SSTC mean for sellers?

Once the buyer's proof of funds has been confirmed, SSTC will show up next to your post on property portals, unless the buyer asks for it to be taken down and you agree. The ‘For Sale’ sign outside your house will also be changed to a ‘Sold STC’ sign.

Can someone view a house that is SSTC?

A home that has been sold subject to contract can still be viewed if the seller agrees to it. However, this could be a risk on the seller’s part as some buyers might choose to withdraw their offer if they find out that the seller is still accepting viewings.

Can I make an offer on a home listed as SSTC?

If the home you are interested in is marked as SSTC, you still have the opportunity to submit an offer. The estate agent has a legal obligation to forward all offers that the seller receives - unless the seller specifically asks them not to. The SSTC stage can be challenging for buyers, as it might result in 'gazumping'.

What is gazumping?

Gazumping is when a higher offer is accepted on the home you are buying, leading to the sale falling through. Timing also plays a big role in gazumping. The seller may accept an offer from a buyer whose schedule fits their needs more closely. Therefore, as a buyer, it’s important to have all your documents at the ready. A mortgage agreement in principle will also speed up the process for both parties.

How to avoid gazumping another buyer

You can register your interest in the property with the agent in case the sale falls through while it is SSTC, even if you do not intend to gazump another buyer. You will be informed and able to make your offer as soon as the property returns on the market.

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What Our Customers Say...

I have recently purchased a property through Richard Kendall Estate Agent. The service was excellent from Emily Dunbar. She chased solicitors for me and constantly kept me updated with the progress. Emily is a credit to Richard Kendall's. Thanks Emily for everything. Adele 10/12/2025

Donna and Joanne were superb at helping and supporting me through quite a difficult sale. Communication and follow up was excellent and everything was dealt with in a friendly and professional manner I would certainly recommend Richard Kendall to all my friends and family. Jill 10/12/2025

We have used Richard Kendall for many years so when deciding to sell our loved property due to heath issues this was the company we straight away contacted initially David at the Wakefield Office and then we were luckily put with senior consultant Karen Marijewko. Karen was so thoughtful and kind she knew about our health problems and went out of her way to guide us through the process of selling and buying .She is a senior property consultant and really deserves that title . If we ever have to move again I would definitely ask for Karen and would advise family and friends to do the same. Judith 10/12/2025

I had a great experience with Elizabeth Cooke from Richard Kendall for the sale of my property. She kept me informed throughout the entire process and was always proactive in chasing things up and staying in regular contact. Her communication was clear, consistent, and always reassuring, which made everything feel easier and less stressful. Liz’s professionalism, friendliness, and dedication was outstanding. I’m so grateful for all her hard work in getting my property sold. Would highly recommend her to anyone looking for a friendly, professional, reliable and supportive estate agent Liz 10/12/2025

Really pleased with all the staff, especially Leah, they kept me up to date throughout the whole process of buying our house, it was easy to get hold of them and on the rare occasion I couldn’t they responded back very quickly cracking estate agents. Graham 10/12/2025

We recently sold a relative's home through Richard Kendall and the service was excellent. The team and in particular our main contact Mandy at the Ossett office kept us informed and updated throughout, explaining where we were at every stage of the process. A professional yet personal service and we would recommend Richard Kendall to anyone thinking of buying or selling a home. Nigel 10/12/2025

Would highly recommend Richard Kendall, this was the second time I’ve used them for selling a house. Amber in the Pontefract office dealt with my sale and she was really helpful, friendly, professional and kept me up-to-date with everything going on with the sale and the wider chain. Thank you! Chris 10/12/2025

Amazing service from Catherine and Shireen at the Wakefield City Branch. They have made the process of moving house so smooth and always kept us up to date with any progress. Can't recommend them enough! Gemma 10/12/2025

We were selling my mum and dad’s house and was an emotional time for me and my sister. Sarah at the Normanton branch dealt with the sale from start to finish. I cannot recommend Sarah enough and she is a credit to Richard Kendall. She kept us informed all the way through and answered any questions we had. She was professional and friendly and made what was a sad time selling the family home easier. The sale was quick and seamless due to Sarah. Thank you Richard Kendall’s, I would recommend them to anyone selling their property Claire 10/12/2025

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