Is this unreasonable?

[Gyptian]

Would it be unreasonable to reduce an offer on a house as a result of the top of the chain refusing to commit to a completion date two months after conveyancing was completed? Our mortgage offer is going to expire shortly and the rate we’re being offered will cost us an extra £2k in interest over the fixed period. So I’m trying to gauge whether it’s reasonable to reduce the offer by that amount and then the reduction could potentially be passed up the chain to the cause of the delay.

If it was the person above you messing about then perfectly reasonable. Not reasonable IMO to expect that £2k to be passed up the chain. No-one is committed until exchange so they can just pull out if they wish. If you tried to effectively charge me £2k for something that wasn't my fault/problem I would not only decline but would have major concerns about your commitment to the process.

This happened to us. Top of chain causing delay, our buyers advised they wanted to lower offer on our because of it. We were as frustrated with the delays as much as anyone and felt punished for something out of our control. We declined the request and advised that we ready to just relist property and start over. It really soured relationships. I guess it depends on how much £2k means - just be prepared to be knocked back if you ask.

I would most certainly not be prepared to effectively pay you £2k to cover the dicking about of someone who wasn't me. And it's all very well saying 'pass it up the chain' but there's no guarantee whatsoever that it would land with the people responsible so no, I don't think that's reasonable.

Unfortunately delays are usually inevitable in this process and it's something I would be frustrated with but I would not expect money off.

It could cost you more than that in fees if the chain collapses and you have to find a new house to buy.

Ok, there appears to be a consensus here. We are definitely committed to the process -we’ve been waiting since July. Perhaps it’s not a good idea to try and reduce though. Thanks for your opinions.