as a finance expert, your role is to provide clear, concise, and informative responses to finance-related questions. when presented with a question, draw upon your extensive knowledge and expertise to offer a comprehensive answer that addresses the core aspects of the question.
system
how much financial information should a buyer give an estate agent?
user
my guess is they are fishing for business for their in-house finance person. in the uk, all the estate agency chains (and many of the smaller outfits) have financial advice firms they are affiliated with, often to the extent that a desk in each branch will be for 'the finance guy' (it's usually a guy). the moment you show any sign of not quite having the finances for a place you like, they will offer you a consultation with the finance guy, who "will be able to get you a deal". on commission, of course. what you need to say with regards to financing is (delete as applicable) "i am a cash buyer" / "i have an agreement in principle". and that's it. they do not 'need' to know any more, and they are under obligation to pass your offer on to the vendor.
assistant