Why hasn’t the seller got back to me?

There are a couple of reasons why sellers don't, or take ages to reply. Mostly it is because it takes time to get to your enquiry and send the appropriate information through to you. This can also be hindered further if the broker or seller is out of the office or on holiday.

Some business brokers send their information through the post, some may try and call you and some may email you, so keep your eye on voicemail messages and your junk mail folder. Most brokers are excellent at replying and we recommend you continue to request the information you want and don't get put off it you don't hear from one.

You may also find that some brokers require you to sign a confidentiality agreement prior to any further information being sent out. Please remember this is sometimes a critical requirement and it is often needed to protect the seller and the business being sold. If you put yourself in the seller’s shoes, you might not want to send out all your financial records etc. to people you don't know (particularly your competitors) or you may only want the broker to release confidential information once you have spoken or met the potential buyer.

Also, we want to encourage you to include as much information about yourself and why you are requesting the details of that business when you enquire. This is so that you distinguish yourself from others who may not be as serious about the business as you are. Brokers should, and often do, send information to every request but the more information you provide such as 'I have looked into finance and this business would be a viable option for me' or 'I am in a position now that if I find the business I can move immediately', would place your enquiry as a higher priority.

It can take up to one week before you hear from the seller in this way. If you have still heard nothing after one working week and would like Customer Services to chase the seller up for you, you need to be a Premium Member. (Customer Services assistance is only available to Premium Members.) You can find instructions in Your Account area to upgrade to Premium Membership.

When you contact us as a Premium Member, Customer Services will investigate why the seller has not got back to you. We will try contact the seller for you or send you their direct contact details if they are available.

Contact the Customer Services Team