Selling a home is stressful enough without wondering whether your estate agency fee is fair. In the UK, percentage-based commission is still common — and a small-looking percentage can translate into thousands of pounds taken from your sale proceeds.
Start with the maths, not the headline rate
If an agent quotes 1.2% plus VAT on a £350,000 sale, work out the cash amount before you compare it to anything else. Two quotes with similar percentages can still be hundreds of pounds apart once VAT and extras are included.
Ask what is included by default
Photography, floor plans, listings on major portals, accompanied viewings, and sales progression support are sometimes bundled — and sometimes itemised. A cheaper headline fee can evaporate once you add the pieces you assumed were standard.
Red flags in the small print
- Vague wording about marketing “upgrades” you did not request.
- Long tie-in periods that make it expensive to switch if you are unhappy.
- Fees triggered even if you find your own buyer in some contract types.
None of this is legal advice; always read your contract carefully and ask your agent to clarify anything unclear before you sign.
Prefer a fee you can see in advance?
A fixed fee model can make costs predictable and keep the focus on your sale, not the percentage.
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