What Happens If the Valuation Comes in Low (And What to Do Next)

A down-valuation is one of the most unsettling moments in the buying process - everything is on track, costs have been incurred, and then the lender values the property below the agreed price. It does not mean the deal is over. It means the deal has been tested, and you now have options to respond without panic.

What a low valuation actually means

The lender's surveyor believes the property is worth less than the agreed price, which limits how much they will lend against it.

How it affects your LTV and deposit

A lower valuation increases your effective LTV, potentially pushing you into a worse rate band or requiring additional cash.

Your four main options

Add more cash, renegotiate the price, try a different lender, or pause and reassess - and what each one involves in practice.

When walking away is the right answer

If bridging the gap empties your buffer, the deal no longer works, or the decision no longer feels calm, withdrawing is a legitimate response.