Real estate ghosting is a growing issue in today’s housing market. It refers to buyers who disappear after signing a purchase agreement—without invoking any legal exit clause like inspection or financing. No communication. No explanation. Just silence. This disruptive behavior is leaving sellers confused, frustrated, and financially exposed.
📊 How Common Is Buyer Ghosting?
- Nationwide, 15% of home purchase agreements were canceled in September 2025, totaling over 53,000 failed deals.
- In Ohio, agents report that up to 10% of deals fall apart due to unexplained buyer disappearance.
Source: Redfin’s ghosting report
😶 Why Do Buyers Ghost?
- Cold feet after signing the contract
- Multiple offers submitted simultaneously
- Emotional burnout from house hunting
- Unrepresented buyers unaware of legal obligations
💸 The Cost of Ghosting for Sellers
- Lost time on market
- Stigma from relisting
- Financial losses from inspections, repairs, or moving costs
🛡️ How Sellers Can Protect Themselves
🔒 1. Use Non-Refundable Earnest Money
Require earnest money, with a portion non-refundable after a short due diligence period.
Important: Earnest money should always be held by a neutral third party, such as a licensed title company or escrow agent, to ensure fairness and legal compliance. This protects both parties and avoids conflicts of interest.
📜 2. Tighten Contract Language
Include “time is of the essence” clauses and communication deadlines.
Add a clause allowing sellers to cancel and retain earnest money if buyers go silent.
🧑💼 3. Vet the Buyer
Request proof of funds or pre-approval letters before accepting an offer.
Work with experienced agents who can spot red flags.
🧾 4. Accept Backup Offers
Always have a backup offer in place to reduce downtime if ghosted.
⚠️ Watch Out for Biased Contract Language
Many standard purchase agreements—especially those drafted by local REALTOR® associations—contain clauses that automatically extend buyer timelines, often without seller consent. One example is Section 3.3 of the Columbus Ohio Board of REALTORS® Residential Real Estate Purchase Contract, which outlines the “Demand for Financing Evidence” process.
This clause allows buyers to delay providing financing documentation and gives them additional time to comply, even after missing deadlines. Worse, if the seller fails to issue a formal written demand within the specified window, they waive their right to terminate the contract—and the buyer may walk away with their earnest money refunded.
This language is problematic because it:
- Shifts responsibility from the buyer to the seller to enforce deadlines
- Protects REALTORS® who fail to ensure their buyers meet contractual obligations
- Limits seller remedies, even when buyers are noncompliant
- Creates loopholes that can be exploited by unresponsive or unqualified buyers
✂️ What Sellers Should Do
- Redact or revise any contract language that automatically grants buyers more time to comply without seller approval.
- Work with a real estate attorney or independent broker to customize contract terms that protect your interests.
- Avoid boilerplate clauses that waive seller rights or release earnest money without due process.
🏡 Ohio Broker Direct: Your Ally Against Ghosting
At Ohio Broker Direct, we understand the frustration of buyer ghosting. That’s why we offer flat-fee MLS listings, contract support, and seller-focused strategies to help you protect your sale. Whether you’re selling in Columbus, Cleveland, or Cincinnati, our experienced team ensures your listing attracts serious buyers—and your contract keeps them committed.
Learn more at OhioBrokerDirect.com
