persian lady the first time buyer gained as they bought for �5,000 less than the original offer and were then able to afford the lower mortgage. I was link 2 and sold for �5,000 less to them, but also bought for �5,000 less from link 3 , so didn't lose anything. Link 3 did the same as me and link 4 was buying a property from a bank due to bankruptcy and they were just glad to get rid of it. I suppose you could be right in part, as the bank received less but they make huge profits and can well afford it. It didn't devalue any of our properties so I can't see why you think we all lost �5,000. I just wish first time buyers would get their mortgages in place before starting the search for their new home as the people in the chain still have to pay some fees when it has gone past a certain point and someone backs out.