Deposit paid for First Refusal on a new build plot - my rights?

Infiniteey

Hello,

I am wondering my position or rights after paying a deposit for an agreement for first refusal on a new build.

Basically I put down the deposit for agreement for first refusal on a plot for a new build about a month ago. The house won't be ready until around Feb next year. However today I was called by the developer saying that someone already made the agreement last year in October and they forgot about it...

I am just wondering where I stand? I already don't quite believe them when they say that someone already made the agreement sometime last year, as when I arranged for mine they already said they usually don't let people reserve until the house around 6 month from being ready. Would I be able to call them out on it?

Thanks

Cakeguts

Ask for the deposit back.

[Deleted User]

For a certain answer you might have to speak to a solicitor with any documents you have relating to the property. But it will probably be a case of just spending more money for nothing. I'd concentrate on getting your deposit back. At least you've only lost a month.

Is there no other acceptable plot available?

Flugelhorn

not going to be able to prove anything - best just get the money back and start looking again. if I was feeling suspicious then I might think that a friend of theirs has decided they want a particular plot and the story has been cooked up - but as I say, very hard to prove

kinger101

I'd ask for twice the deposit back. Worst that will happen is they'll say no.

chanz4

No exchange of contract to sell