A Jenkins
1

Avoid - unprofessional and deceptive pressure tactics.<br><br>Very unpleasant experience with James Gough. Relieved we pulled out at an early stage, especially as first time buyers. We got the distinct impression that we could be taken advantage of.<br><br>We found a nice house which met our requirements earlier this year.<br><br>We made an original starting offer by email of £565k with a valid AIP in writing. Unfortunately, James refused to pass this on to the seller, stating that unless we had it backed by a mortgage broker he would not show it to the seller (he later denied this, and tried to claim that he did actually pass it on).<br><br>We then received a phone call a few days later asking us to increase the offer, as there was another higher offer on the table. James then asked to speak to our mortgage broker to confirm with them directly that we could afford our new higher offer of £585k. This all felt particularly rushed and we were certainly put under pressure to get a solicitor instructed.<br><br>We took a bit of time to reflect, then decided that we would reduce our offer, as we made a pressured decision that was beyond our budget. James called me aggressively claiming that he did us a massive favour and worked very hard to secure the house, as there was another offer exceeding £600k which had been accepted.<br><br>We stood our ground.<br><br>Turns out the house sold for £570k after all.<br><br>Stick to your guns, know your rights.<br><br>If you make an offer, they are legally bound to present it to the seller in writing, remember that (mortgage broker or not).... Read more
3rd Oct 2026 (24 days ago)