What Does STC Mean? A Clear Guide for UK Property Buyers
If you’re browsing UK property listings, you’ve probably seen the label “Sold STC” next to homes that look perfect — and wondered what it really means. STC is one of the most commonly misunderstood terms in the London property market, and knowing how it works can help you avoid disappointment, jump on opportunities, and understand where you stand as a buyer or seller.
Here’s a complete breakdown of what STC means, why it matters, and how it affects your buying strategy.
What Does STC Stand For?
STC means “Sold Subject to Contract.”
It indicates that:
the seller has accepted an offer,
but the sale is not legally binding yet,
and the property is still in the pre-contract phase.
In other words: the deal is agreed in principle, but not in law.
Source: UK Residential Transaction Definitions Guide, 2024
What Happens During the STC Phase?
Once a property is marked STC, several important steps begin:
buyer arranges mortgage approval
survey or valuation takes place
solicitors begin property searches
legal checks are completed
any renegotiations are handled (e.g., post-survey)
This period typically lasts 8–14 weeks, depending on the complexity of the transaction.
Source: UK Conveyancing Timeline Report, 2024
Is an STC Property Still Available?
Technically, yes — even though it is marked STC.
That’s because the UK property system only becomes legally binding at exchange of contracts, not when an offer is accepted. This creates the possibility of:
gazumping — another buyer offering more, and the seller accepting
fall-throughs — the buyer pulling out before exchange
Around 25–30% of agreed offers in the UK fall through before completion.
Source: UK Home Buying Fall-Through Rate Study, 2024
This is why STC means “agreed but not guaranteed.”
STC vs Under Offer: What’s the Difference?
These two terms often confuse buyers:
Under Offer means a buyer has made an offer and the seller is considering it.
Sold STC means the offer has been accepted, but contracts are not exchanged.
Think of it this way:
Under Offer = negotiating
STC = progressing
Exchanged = legally binding
Completed = ownership transferred
Why Sellers Use the STC Label
Sellers mark homes as STC to:
signal that serious buyers should not expect immediate availability
reduce the number of unnecessary viewings
move the deal forward with a committed buyer
However, estate agents are still legally allowed to pass on higher offers until exchange.
What Buyers Should Know About STC
Here’s where the strategy comes in:
1. You Can Still Enquire About an STC Property
Sellers sometimes accept stronger backup buyers if the current offer looks shaky.
2. The Property Could Return to Market
With high fall-through rates, an STC home may reappear — often at a revised price.
3. Move Fast to Exchange
Once your offer is accepted, act quickly with paperwork to reduce the risk of losing the property.
4. Protect Yourself Financially
Gazundering (buyer lowering their offer late) and gazumping are both risks in slow-moving transactions.
Why STC Matters So Much in London
Central London moves fast. Many desirable properties go under offer within days, and the STC label helps serious buyers understand which homes are truly in play.
In luxury or high-demand boroughs:
homes often attract multiple offers
international buyers can act quickly
off-market deals are increasingly common
This makes understanding STC essential for navigating competitive areas like Marylebone, Kensington, Shoreditch or Canary Wharf.
Source: Prime London Buyer Behaviour Index, 2024
How Long Until STC Becomes “Sold”?
A property remains STC until exchange of contracts, which happens only when:
both solicitors approve all checks
finances are confirmed
the deposit is transferred
both parties sign the contract
Once exchanged, the transaction becomes legally binding.
Completion follows shortly afterward.
Should You Offer on a Home That’s Sold STC?
It depends on:
the strength of your offer
the seller’s motivation
whether the current buyer is progressing slowly
whether it’s a hot property in a hot area
Since STC isn’t legally binding, some sellers consider backup offers — especially if timelines slip.
Final Thoughts
STC simply means the property is partially committed, not fully sold. For buyers, it’s a sign to stay alert, act intelligently and understand that opportunities still exist — especially in a fast-moving market like London.
Whether you’re buying your first home or investing in prime property, knowing the meaning of STC helps you make informed, confident decisions.