FAQ’S
How much are estate agent fees?
Fees tend to be between 3% and 5% and can be affected by how many agents are trying to sell your property ,value of the asset, location of the asset and how well you’ve negotiated.
What do estate agent fees cover?
This can vary between agents, so it’s a good idea to ask exactly what the fee includes before signing a contract.
Some low-cost packages might not include all the essential elements.
Here are some of the services you can expect:
• A professional property valuation.
• A detailed written description of your home.
• Accurate floorplans.
• A set of professionally taken photographs.
• A clear, well-presented ‘For Sale’ board.
• Communication with a list of potential buyers.
• Thorough marketing of your property on any portals.
• Well-organised and managed viewings.
• Professional negotiation of a realistic, acceptable sale price.
• Cost of nature of advertisement and who is bearing.
How about hidden costs?
Here are a few key points to check before deciding on your agent.
Does your fee include advertising costs such as placement on property websites and ‘For Sale’ boards? These should all be covered, so carry on looking if an agent wants to charge extra upfront fees for marketing and advertising.
When do you pay an real estate agent fee?
Estate agent fees should only be paid when your sale is completed and the money is in your account.
This is called a ‘no sale, no fee’ agreement, and it’s definitely what you should go for.
The arrangement to avoid is where you agree to be a ‘ready, willing and able purchaser’ as this means that you have to pay the agent, even if you pull out of the sale.
Choosing the best estate agent and negotiating the right fee is a balancing act.
You need to aim for great value, but you also want a top-performing agent who can attract serious buyers and get the highest possible price.
The key is doing some careful research, focusing on the estate agents in your local area — and remembering that as a seller, you’re in a strong position to secure the fee you’re happy .