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Shut The Front Door: The Almost Vendor
"We’re Not Ready to Sell" The Psychology of the Almost Vendor
Andrew Rhatigan
August 31, 2025
Before You Read: A Quick Favour
I recently had the chance to collaborate with Paul Davis, a highly regarded business advisor, on a new podcast: Beyond Just Business.
It’s a conversation that goes well beyond property. Whether you’re navigating a career move, running a business, or just seeking a different perspective, I think you’ll find real value in it.
It’s designed to challenge how you think - and maybe shift how you approach what’s next.
Have a listen here and let me know what resonates.
First 3 episodes are out now
Indecision Is The Thief Of Opportunity
In a market where timing is everything, there’s a particular character that deserves closer attention: “the almost-vendor.”
They’re the ones who list their property;sort of. They engage an agent, maybe. They give a price guide, perhaps. But when it comes to momentum, it stalls. Enquiries go unanswered. Viewings are limited. Progress is glacial.
For the buyer, it’s confusing. For the advisor, it’s revealing. Because behind that hesitation is often a seller still working out how they feel about letting go.
Spotting the Almost-Vendor
They’re not always obvious. Sometimes, the listing looks standard.
But there are tells:
- The agent is vague about timelines.
- The price feels off, too high or oddly flexible.
- Access is limited or erratic.
- There’s no sense of urgency.
This is often someone testing the market. They haven’t found where they’re going next. They may not even be aligned internally, one half wants to sell, the other doesn’t.
The result? Buyers are drawn in, but deals rarely materialise. Not because the interest wasn’t there, but because the commitment wasn’t.
Why It Happens
Selling a home, especially in Ireland, isn’t just a financial transaction. It’s emotional. It’s tied to family, identity, security. And for some, the thought of parting ways with a home is daunting.
That leads to a kind of hedging. Sellers dip a toe in, hoping to be convinced. But unless something forces their hand; a new job, a deadline, a life change, they stay in limbo.
Why It Matters for Buyers
If you’re actively looking, the almost-vendor can cost you:
Time spent on a deal that won’t happen
Emotional energy chasing shadows
Frustration from unclear communication
Worse still, it can cause you to second-guess your instincts.
But the problem isn’t you. It’s that you were dealing with someone who wasn’t ready to deal.
What to Do Instead
Clarify Motivation Early: Don’t be afraid to ask: Why are they selling? Have they found somewhere else? Is there a timeline?
Watch the Behaviour: Words matter, but actions matter more. If access is tricky or updates are slow, take note.
Stay Detached: Don’t invest emotionally until you know they have.
Where an Advocate Helps
A skilled advisor will spot the signs early. They’ll shield you from dead ends and help you prioritise energy where it matters. Because when you're buying from abroad, or operating under pressure, you can't afford to chase uncertainty.
And sometimes, the best outcome is the one you avoid.
Three Points to Ponder:
Are you spending energy on a seller who isn’t spending it on you?
Can you spot the difference between interest and intent?
Is your team filtering for clarity, or feeding the confusion?
Not every listing is a real opportunity.
The key is knowing which ones are worth your time.
And that starts with recognising who’s truly ready to sell, and who’s just thinking about it.
P.S.
If you are thinking of moving from USA this may help you…
