Can a BC seller back out after accepting an offer?

Direct answer

Generally no — once a Contract of Purchase and Sale is unconditionally accepted (all subjects removed by the buyer and the seller has signed), both parties are legally bound to complete on the contract terms. A seller who refuses to complete is in breach of contract and exposed to: (1) specific-performance lawsuits from the buyer (BC courts have ordered specific performance — i.e., compelled the seller to convey title — for residential transactions where the property is unique, though this remedy is granted less often than damages); (2) damages equal to the buyer's actual losses, typically the difference between the contract price and a higher market price the buyer must pay to acquire equivalent property, plus consequential losses (rent during delay, alternative-housing costs, legal fees). The Home Buyer Rescission Period (HBRP, BC since January 3, 2023) is a BUYER's right — the seller has NO equivalent rescission right. Three narrow exceptions where a seller may legitimately back out: (1) the contract itself is void for fraud or material misrepresentation by the buyer; (2) a subject condition that survives buyer acceptance is not met (e.g., a "subject to court approval" or "subject to probate" provision); (3) the buyer materially breaches first (e.g., fails to deposit the earnest money or fails to complete on the agreed date). Practitioner truth: most BC seller "I want out" requests are renegotiation tactics — a strong buyer's lawyer letter usually closes the deal at the original price.