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Redacted Proof of Funds: Why It’s the Worst Advice You Could Take

This one is for the brokers, the social media influencers, and anyone else out there who thinks they’re helping buyers by telling them to redact their proof of funds. Let’s clear this up once and for all: that’s not good advice. It’s actually the opposite.

What are proof of funds?

Proof of funds is simple: documentation that shows you have the means to complete a property purchase. It can be a bank statement, a letter from your lender, an email from your Solicitor or Broker or another verifiable document. The key word here is proof. It’s about giving the selling agent—and, ultimately, the vendor—confidence that your offer is not just words, but backed up by the financial ability to follow through.

What happens when you redact?

If you send a heavily redacted document with the actual figures hidden, what exactly are you providing? Nothing. You might as well be sending your most recent letter to Santa. It has the same weight and the same credibility—none.

Why this matters

When you make an offer, the selling agent has a legal responsibility to register it and present it properly to the vendor. If the “proof” you provide has no numbers or usable information, then it’s not proof at all. Some agents might accept it (and if they do, they’re not doing their job properly), but don’t be surprised when your offer isn’t taken seriously—or worse, isn’t even registered.

Don’t cry about it later

Here’s the harsh truth: if you lose out on a home because you refused to provide real proof of funds, don’t come crying about unfairness. You chose to take advice from a stranger on Instagram instead of following the actual requirements of the process. Property is too big, too expensive, and too important to play games with.

The bottom line

Redacting your proof of funds doesn’t protect you—it undermines you. It wastes everyone’s time, jeopardises your chances, and makes your offer look flaky. If you’re serious about buying, show that you’re serious. Provide proper, verifiable proof of funds and give yourself the best possible chance of securing the home you want.

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