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...

As electrical contractors, CRE Electricians have had the pleasure of working alongside Richard Kendall in Wakefield for some time now, and we consistently experience a smooth and efficient partnership. What stands out is their exceptional organisation and communication skills. Getting access to properties is always seamless, keys are sorted promptly and the team always work for one another if someones out of the office. A special mention to Alannah, Jessica and Elisa who work especially hard to ensure a smooth experience for all involved in our electrical works. We look forward to continuing our working relationship! Thanks again guys, keep up the good work! Team @ CRE Electricians Chris 15/04/2025

Just completed upon my mum’s bungalow in Horbury Wakefield. This was a complex sale (Shared Ownership Scheme) involving Landlord, their Solicitors & Managing Agents working in conjunction with my Solicitors and the Purchasers Solicitors. It was extremely challenging and demanding but was successfully orchestrated and managed by their Senior Property Consultant Mandy Bennett based in their Ossett Agency. We fully recognise and appreciate this was only achieved through the hard work and persistence of Mandy supported by her fellow colleagues in the local area. We were always kept up to date at all stages and would highly recommend Richard Kendall’s Estate Agents. Steve 15/04/2025

From the outset it was a privilege to converse with Karen Marijewko. She made the whole process very straightforward. The Richard Kendall software system updating me regularly with viewings was extremely good. Overall a simple, clear and efficient process. Highly recommend this company and Karen. Mr Snow 15/04/2025

We would like to thank Catherine and Shireen for working so hard in our selling/buying. They were so knowledgeable, polite and extremely helpful. They gave us lots of support. All the other staff were helpful too, especially Margaret. Thank you so much. Kind regards, Sue and Keith. Sue 15/04/2025

Excellent service. Can't rate Leah enough at Ossett branch. She went above and beyond to get our completion through before the end March. Alan 15/04/2025

Richard Kendall Estate Agents guided us through a tough buyer’s market when other agents pushed us to drastically lower our property’s price. Despite our urgency to sell, they advised against a steep reduction, suggesting a modest drop instead. Their insight—that finding the right buyer takes time—proved spot-on. Within a week of the adjustment, a couple fell in love with our home and bought it, leaving us wondering if we’d undersold. Alison and the team were professional, communicative, and strategic—focused on value, not just a quick sale. Highly recommend! David 15/04/2025

A very good experience with Liz at Richard Kendals. She was always in touch either by email or phone call. I would highly recommend RK. For buying and selling. Thank you to Liz and everyone at RK. Excellent customer service. Christine 15/04/2025

Just want to give Alison Hopkinson 10/10 For helping me through my sale always ringing me letting me know about the progression of my sale thanks again Alison Antony 15/04/2025