Trying to move for 18mths - should I give up

[JellyMouse]

I accepted an offer on my house over a year ago and have been looking for properties for 18mths. I have had offers accepted on two properties and they have got as far as the survey stage and both had significant properties so I pulled out. My buyers are hanging on in there waiting for me but I’m struggling to find anything in my search area. I am moving as the property that I’m in is too small but I’m thinking of giving it up. I hate living in limbo and am starting to think that I should just learn to be happy where I am. I’ve already spent 100s of pounds and got nowhere, I could have used the money on my current place. Anyone experienced similar and when did you know when to give up on the idea!?

Sell and rent somewhere while you keep looking. It would be a shame to lose your buyers, especially if you have kept them hanging on for that long...

Widen your search to another area.

Frankly if I were your buyers I would have withdrawn my offer long ago...

How bad were the surveys?
I think you either need to sell and rent, or pull out. Your buyers have been holding on for ages, and have spent money on the purchase too. They need a resolution.

I would feel so sorry for the buyers who have been waiting so long! Can you let them move in and you rent whilst searching..?
Or have you tried extending your search area? It sounds like the two you chose were cheaper due to their poorer state so going further afield you may find sthg in better nick..?

Yes, do the decent thing with your buyers one way or another.

It took me 18 months from offer to completion, with unexpected probate in-between, for me to move. I was that very very very patient buyer with a seller who couldn't find anywhere. Your buyers have been incredibly loyal to you, and to drop them feels cruel. I agree, sell then rent, your buyers get to move and your chances of having offers accepted and moving are vastly improved when you are chain free.

Your poor buyers! I agree, sell and rent. Are they having to rent whilst you dilly dally? Or are they selling too and you're holding up a chain?