Q. I made an offer last week on an apartment that has recently come to the market. I am however extremely frustrated as the agent has advised me that even though I have offered the full asking price the vendor is not willing to accept my offer or take the property off the market as I still have to sell my one bedroom flat. Does this not sound a little unreasonable? Surely the fact that my property is on the market and I have a mortgage agreed in principle is enough for them to accept that I am a serious buyer?

A. I understand your frustration completely, but unfortunately until you are under offer you will find that most Vendors are not willing to proceed any further with your interest. Of course the fact that your finances are in order and your property is on the market are favourable, but unfortunately you are not in a position to proceed any further with the purchase until you have a qualified buyer that is ready, willing and able to proceed. Get your agent to speak to the agent that is acting for the property that you have offered on to confirm your position, that will give the vendor a little reassurance, however although a very difficult position to be in there is little else you can do at this stage until your agent secures you a buyer on your property.