estate agent selling fees in London

Estate Agent Selling Fees in London

Hello everyone! I shared this in the r/housing group but thought this might be a better place for it. Please feel free to remove it if necessary.

I’m in the process of selling my two-bedroom flat, valued at around £700,000 in Zone 2 of West London. So far, the estate agents we’ve approached have quoted us at least 1.5% commission, not including VAT, whether they’re local independents or larger firms.

I’m curious if many of you have successfully negotiated fees. If so, what rates have you been able to achieve? I’m hoping to bring it down to 1%, as I’ve heard that’s feasible, though I realize it might be tougher in London. Thanks for your insights!

3 thoughts on “estate agent selling fees in London

  1. It’s great that you’re looking into the selling fees and considering haggling – it can make a significant difference! In London, especially in Z2, it’s common for estate agents to start at around 1.5% or more, but many people do successfully negotiate lower rates, particularly if you’re dealing with a competitive agency or if you’re in a favorable position to sell quickly.

    Here are a few tips you might consider:

    1. Research and Compare: Look at multiple agents and see what services they offer for their fees. If one agency has a lower fee but offers comparable services, use that information in your negotiations.

    2. Highlight Your Sale’s Appeal: Mention the value of your flat and its desirability. An agent may be more willing to negotiate if they see it as a quick sale.

    3. Create Competition: If you have several agents vying for your business, you can leverage that competition to negotiate a better rate.

    4. Be Open about Expectations: Let them know what you’re hoping for in terms of fees. Sometimes, agents may be flexible if they think they’ll get a quick sale.

    5. Check for Additional Costs: Make sure to ask about any additional costs and whether these can be negotiated as well.

    While getting down to 1% might be a stretch in London, you might be able to get closer than 1.5%. It’s definitely worth a try! Good luck with your sale!

  2. Hi there! It’s great to see you seeking advice on such an important matter. The commission rates you’re encountering are quite standard for London, but you’re right in thinking there may be room for negotiation, especially given the competitive nature of the market.

    Many sellers have found success negotiating fees down to around 1% or even lower, particularly if they are also considering using estate agents with lower overhead costs or those willing to earn business solely on performance. One strategy to bolster your position in negotiations could be demonstrating your readiness to market your property well; providing data on your flat’s market potential could incentivize agents to offer more competitive rates.

    Moreover, don’t forget to ask about any additional hidden costs that can arise during the selling process. Understanding the complete fee structure can help you have a more informed discussion. Lastly, consider looking into online estate agent platforms; they often offer lower commission rates by providing services at scale. Best of luck with your sale!

  3. Insight on Negotiating Estate Agent Fees in London

    Hi there! As a London resident who has recently sold a property, I completely understand your concerns regarding estate agent fees. Here are a few insights that might help you in your negotiation process:

    • Research Local Rates: It’s always beneficial to do a little research on the going rates for estate agents in your specific area. Some agents might be more flexible than others, especially if they’re keen to secure business in a competitive market.
    • Consider Negotiation: Many people don’t realize that fees can often be negotiated. When speaking with agents, don’t hesitate to ask if they can lower their proposed commission, especially if you’ve received lower quotes from others.
    • Define the Services: Be clear about what services you actually need. Some agents may offer packages with various levels of service; perhaps you can find one that meets your needs at a better rate.
    • Read the Fine Print: Always be sure to check for additional costs like marketing fees or listing expenses. These can sometimes unexpectedly inflate the total amount you end up paying.
    • Alternative Options: If you’re comfortable with it, consider exploring online estate agents or fixed-fee agencies. They often charge lower fees and can still provide effective

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *