In property, many people think the job is done when a home is marked Sold Subject to Contract. But real saleability is something entirely different.

Saleability is the percentage of homes that make it all the way from being listed on the market to exchange of contracts and legal completion, when everyone is committed, the funds have cleared, and the move actually happens.

The Current UK Saleability Rates

Recent data shows just how many homes listed in the UK actually make it to completion:

• Up to £250k – 62.6% reach completion

• £250k to £500k – 54.9%

• £500k to £750k – 47.2%

• £750k to £1m – 43.8%

• £1m to £2m – 38.9%

• £2m+ – 24.3%

The numbers reveal a clear pattern—the higher the price, the lower the likelihood of the sale completing.

Why Do the Odds Fall as Prices Rise?

There are several reasons for this trend:

• Smaller buyer pools – Fewer people can afford high-value homes.

• Tighter lending checks – Mortgage scrutiny increases with bigger loans.

• Affordability challenges – Even cash buyers weigh risks more heavily.

• Overvaluation by agents – Inflated asking prices can stall sales.

• Longer chains – More links mean more opportunities for things to go wrong.

• Survey issues – Bigger properties often come with bigger complications.

• Slower decision-making – Larger transactions take more thought and time.

How to Improve Your Saleability

If you want to boost your chances of a smooth completion, here’s where to start:

1. Price realistically – Base your asking price on very recent completions, not just market hopes.

2. Get financially ready – Have proof of funds or a mortgage agreement in place before you list.

3. Instruct your conveyancer early – Complete all forms and paperwork before a buyer is found.

4. Gather your documents – This includes guarantees, planning consents, and warranties.

5. Understand your chain – Map out every link and agree on a clear, regular update schedule to catch issues early.

The Bottom Line

Saleability begins before your home hits the market and ends with keys in hands and cash in the bank. That’s the only measure that truly matters, and it’s where sellers and agents should focus their attention.