EA won't let go

[robinsonbarley]

DD dropped out of buying a flat a few weeks ago and the agent keeps contacting her about the seller wanting money for all their lost expenses.
It's a well known London agent.
DD has lost money herself on solicitors and survey and admits she has no 'worthy' reason for dropping out - just cooled over time and felt it would be a mistake to go on.
Agent was fine for a while but has since started calling and emailing asking for her to reimburse the seller.
I've told her to stop engaging, that she's under no legal obligation as they were nowhere near exchange or completion - am I right?

Correct, tell the agent to jog on

Im sure the seller is furious, but your DD owes her nothing.

Correct. Unfortunately this is the downside to buying/selling in England and Wales. I think Scotland is better.

The EA is telling the seller a load of rubbish if s/he's implying there is any chance of recouping money already spent! They know nothing is legally binding at this stage.

Also recoup money for WHAT?! The buyer is the one who loses money as they will have paid for the survey. The seller shouldn't have incurred any costs so far (assuming EA and solicitor are on contracts where they're only paid when the sale completes - if they're not that's a mistake the seller has made).

Yes, you are right. Tell her to stop engaging. It's a very annoying part of the system but it happens to both buyers and sellers when the other plus, out, however good or bad the reason.

If it’s an agent she might need in the future, best not to alienate.

”I know your seller is very disappointed that I am not proceeding. I too incurred costs. Unfortunately the English system dictates that a buyer is only responsible for a seller’s costs after the point of exchange, and even then, it would involve going to court; perhaps they need reminding of this?”

Thanks all!

As annoying as it is for the seller, if the buyer drops out before exchange, there's nothing the seller can do about it.

You are so right.

I would be blocking the agent if I was your Daughter.