Sold STC Meaning: Can You Still Make an Offer?

Quick answer

Sold STC means "sold subject to contract". The seller has accepted an offer, but contracts haven't been exchanged. Until exchange, either side can walk away — so a Sold STC home isn't off the market in legal terms.

Where you'll see it

On Rightmove, Zoopla and OnTheMarket, a listing marked Sold STC usually stays visible with a banner. The agent is telling other buyers the seller has a buyer, while keeping interest alive in case the sale fails.

Why sales fall through between offer and exchange

• Chain problems — someone further up or down the chain pulls out.
• Survey findings — the buyer's survey uncovers issues and renegotiation fails.
• Mortgage issues — a down-valuation or a lender declining the application.
• Change of circumstances — job moves, relationship changes, cold feet.
• Slow legal work — long delays can push either side to give up.

Can you still make an offer?

Yes. In England and Wales, agents must pass all offers to the seller promptly and in writing, unless the seller has told them in writing not to. The seller is free to ignore it — many will stay loyal to their first buyer — but a strong offer can matter if the existing sale is shaky.

Before you offer:

1. Ask the agent how the sale is progressing. Has a survey been done? Is the buyer chain-free?
2. Make sure your offer is backed by evidence. Check the asking price against comparable sold prices, not just the original listing.
3. Show you're a strong buyer. Mortgage agreement in principle, deposit ready, ideally no chain.
4. Ask to be kept informed if the sale falls through.

Sold STC vs Under Offer

The two are often used interchangeably, but some agents use "Under Offer" earlier, when an offer has been accepted but memorandums haven't gone out, and "Sold STC" once the sale is progressing with solicitors. See our guide to what "under offer" means.

Is this the right one to chase?

If a Sold STC home comes back, you'll want to move fast. An Offer Smart report gives you comparable sold prices, £/sq ft and a suggested offer range in minutes, so you're ready to make a sensible offer the moment the agent calls.