So, time has progressed. How did it all end?

I tend to agree with KrsitiKat. The seller cannot sell you what he does not own. Teh "nominee"thinsg ha sbeen stopped some years ago as far as I know. Its still exists, but one has 24h to name the "nominee" and not longer as this had been abused. I cant remember how.

Next time make sure your OTP states 'vacant' occupation on transfer. Maybe the intial seller was living there and not just a tenant. He wil resist a lot being kicked out of his own former house. I personally stay away from auctions. Also check the breach clauses or write your own. I never use any agent's OTP template and always make my own.