10 Questions to ask estate agents when selling your house

Looking at the best questions to ask estate agents when selling a house in the UK

Sell your house in 28 days

WRITTEN BY: Tom condon ★ Digital Content Writer

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Purplebricks house valuation vs estate agent

Looking at which is better: A Purplebricks valuation or an estate agent valuation

Sell your house in 28 days

WRITTEN BY: Tom Condon ★ Digital Content Writer

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Table of Contents

When selling your house, selecting the right estate agent can greatly impact the success of your sale. Engaging with an estate agent requires asking the right questions to make sure you’re making the right decisions. 

 

In this article, we will help you understand the right questions to ask estate agents, the costs involved and how you can evaluate effective estate agent marketing strategies. These questions will empower you to establish a productive relationship with your estate agent and achieve a successful sale.

Key takeaways:

 

  • Selecting the right estate agent is important for a successful house sale and asking detailed questions about costs, strategies, and contract terms to make an informed decision.
  • Effective communication and clarity on all aspects of the selling process, including potential hidden costs and the estate agent’s negotiation tactics, can improve your selling experience.
  • Selling with The Property Selling Company means you can sell in as little as 28 days, and we will cover all your costs.

How do you start a conversation with an estate agent?

Starting a conversation with an estate agent can feel daunting, especially if you’re new to the home selling process. Effective communication with your estate agent is important to selling your home at the right price and time. 

 

To help you get started on the right foot, here are some key steps to starting a conversation with estate agents:

Begin with a friendly greeting and introduce yourself. Mention any mutual contacts or how you found the estate agent. 

 

Example: “ Hi, my name is [Your Name]. I found your contact through [Source].”

Clearly explain why you’re reaching out. Are you looking to sell your property?

 

Example: “I’m interested in selling my home in [location].”

Briefly describe your current situation and what you’re looking to achieve.

 

Example: “I currently own a three-bedroom semi-detached home in [area], and I’m looking to sell it within the next month.”

Show that you’re prepared and serious by asking relevant questions.

 

Example: “Can you tell me more about the process of working with you? What are the current market trends in this area?”

Mention how you prefer to communicate and your availability.

 

Example: “I prefer to communicate via email/text/phone. What is the best way to reach you?”

Ask about the estate agent’s availability and how often you should expect updates.

Example: “How often will we touch base during the selling process?”

Sell to a regulated estate agent

Questions to ask estate agent

When selling your home, choosing the right estate agent can be vital in ensuring you get the best out of your house sale. Whether you’re weighing up multiple agents, multiple agency models or brands, here are some of the best questions to ask your estate agent:

1. How much will it cost?

Understanding the costs involved can help you budget effectively and avoid any unexpected expenses. Knowing the estate agent’s fees upfront ensures you are aware of the financial commitment required to sell your home. 

 

If you are looking to sell via a traditional estate agent, you can expect to pay between 1% to 3% +VAT of your final selling price, with additional fees for marketing, photography or mortgage advice.

 

If you are looking to sell via an online estate agent, you will most likely pay an upfront fee which can range from a few hundred pounds to a couple of thousand pounds. Some online estate agents may say you can “sell your home for free”, but in reality they offer a very basic free package and then hit you with paid-packages that cost upwards of £899. 

 

And, that’s without taking into account legal fees. 

 

Alternatively, selling via a modern estate agent like The Property Selling Company means you can actually sell your house for free. Our sellers enjoy free marketing, listing, and legal services. We generate our profit from the buyer’s side, meaning you don’t have to pay a penny.

2. Do you offer a sliding scale of commission?

A sliding scale of commission can incentivise the estate agent to achieve a higher sale price for your home, as their commission increases with the sale price which can align the estate agent’s interest with yours.

 

Many traditional estate agents offer a sliding scale commission rate that decreases as the sale price increases, that can be negotiated for more favourable terms. Online estate agents on the other hand do not offer a sliding scale as they charge a fixed fee which cannot be negotiated.

 

Modern estate agents on the other hand, are completely free and therefore don’t need a sliding scale of commission.

 

3. Are there any hidden costs?

Clarifying if there are any hidden costs ensures transparency and helps you avoid unexpected charges. This includes marketing fees, administrative costs and other potential expenses.

 

When you sell with a traditional estate agent, you may be hit with potential hidden costs like marketing, professional photography, floor plans, EPC and premium listings on Rightmove or Zoopla. But, most of the time these are included within the estate agent commission rate. 

 

Online estate agents’ services differ. Some online estate agents will offer a “free” service which is very basic and will include listing your house online, but then have packages which cost upwards of £899 for essential house selling services like photography, hosted viewings, floor plans and EPCs. 

 

Other online estate agents may act unethically by getting you to sign extended exclusivity agreements and then surprise you with hidden costs. If you encounter such practices, report them to the relevant Redress Scheme, such as The Property Ombudsman.

 

Modern estate agents, on the other hand, offer a completely free service, which covers everything you need to sell your home effectively. 

4. Do I need an Energy Performance Certificate?

An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal requirement in England and Wales before a house can be sold. It provides potential buyers with information about your home’s energy efficiency, which can impact their buying decision.

 

An EPC rates the energy efficiency of your home on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (lease efficient). This rating can influence a buyer’s perception of your home’s running costs and environmental impact. Additionally an EPC includes recommendations for improving your home’s energy efficiency, which can be useful for both sellers and buyers.

 

Most online and traditional estate agents require you to cover the cost of the EPC yourself, as it remains valid you switch estate agents. However, The Property Selling Company covers the cost for you, ensuring a smooth and cost-free process.

 

The EPC is valid for 10 years, so if you already have one from a previous transaction within this period, you may not need a new one. If you do need to obtain an EPC, the process usually involves a visit from a qualified assessor who will evaluate various aspects of your home, such as insulation, heating systems and windows.

We will cover all aspects of your sale

5. How will my house be put up for sale?

Understanding the marketing strategy your estate agent will use ensures your house is presented to the widest possible audience, this could include online listings, open houses, professional photos and other marketing tactics.

 

Traditional estate agents will list your home on major property portals, in the office and advertise in local newspapers. They will also conduct hosted viewings and provide marketing materials, included within their service.

 

Online estate agents will also list your house on property portals (Rightmove, Zoopla, maybe OnTheMarket), as well as their website. You may however, need to manage viewings and some marketing aspects yourself unless you opt for a package that includes these services.

 

Modern estate agents like The Property Selling Company will put your house on the property portals like Rightmove and Zoopla, advertise your home to pre-vetted buyers and investors, and offer cover premium listings if needed. All while helping you to sell in as little as 28 days. 

6. How quickly will my house be sold?

While it’s impossible to predict the exact time it will take to sell a house, an estate agent can provide an estimate based on market conditions and their experience. This helps you plan your next steps and manage your expectations.

 

Most online and traditional estate agents usually sell a house within three months, though this can vary based on market conditions, pricing and local demand. In some cases, properties may remain on the market for over six months before receiving an offer.

 

In contrast, modern estate agents can sell your house in as little as 28 days. The majority of properties are sold within six weeks, with completion often occurring within two months. Which is significantly faster than any other estate agency model. 

7. What types of contracts do you use?

Knowing the types of contracts available (e.g. sole agency, joint agency, multiple agency) helps you understand your obligations and rights. Different contracts come with different terms and conditions that can affect the selling process.

 

Traditional estate agents are familiar with sole agency, joint agency and multiple agency contracts, all of which can help generate competitive offers. However, each contract type has different implications for fees and the ability to list with other estate agents.

 

Online estate agents usually offer simple, sole agency contracts due to their fixed fee structure. There may be some flexibility for high-value properties, but generally, these contracts limit the listing to a single estate agent.

 

Modern estate agents are similar to online estate agents in their preference for sole agency contracts, as this approach streamlines the selling process and aligns with their efficient, no-fee model. 

8. Will I be held liable if I change estate agents and sell at a later date?

This question is important to avoid any legal or financial liabilities if you decide to switch estate agents. Some contracts may include clauses that obligate you to pay fees even if you sell with a different estate agent.

 

When you sell with a traditional estate agent you may be liable to a penalty if you sell within a certain period after terminating the contract with your initial estate agent, but this will depend on the contract terms.

 

With online estate agents, you generally pay the fee upfront or upon sale, so switching estate agents might not incur additional liability.

 

When you use a modern estate agent, the process is completely free for you if you sell the house with them. However, if you switch estate agents, you may be liable for the legal and selling costs associated with their side of the transaction. This is because your house sale doesn’t generate any profit for them, and they need to ensure they at least break even. 

9. What happens with viewings?

Understanding how viewings are managed ensures that your home is presented effectively to potential buyers. It also helps you prepare and coordinate your schedule for these viewings.

 

Usually traditional estate agents will manage and conduct viewings on your behalf, including open houses and individual appointments. Online estate agents on the other hand may conduct viewings yourself unless you pay for an additional service where the estate agent handles them.

 

Here at The Property Selling Company, we will handle all your viewings, dealing with potential buyers and if you need it, we may consider an open house. All of this is included within our completely free house selling service.

10. When do I receive funds when my house is sold?

Knowing when you will receive the proceeds from the sale is important for your financial planning. It affects when you pay off any outstanding mortgages, buy a new home or make other financial decisions. 

 

For traditional, online and modern estate agents, you will receive the funds upon completion of your house sale which is usually managed by your solicitor or conveyancer. This is the same regardless of the type of estate agent you use.

Sell your house in as little as 28 days

What is the most asked question to an estate agent?

With the current economic uncertainties and fluctuations in the UK housing market, you may have many complex questions about selling your home. It’s important to rely on a market expert like The Property Selling Company, who can provide clear, informed answers and support their advice with solid insights.

 

By getting answers to the most pressing questions in today’s housing market, you can navigate this intricate landscape more confidently. An expert estate agent will help you understand market trends, pricing strategies and the best time to sell, ensuring you make well informed decisions. 

 

Here are the three most asked questions to an estate agent:

How much is my house worth?

Knowing the value of your house can help you set a realistic expectation and make informed decisions about selling. An accurate house valuation can prevent your house from being overpriced, which can deter buyers, or underpriced, which can lead to financial loss.

 

Understanding the value of your home in the current market also helps position it competitively. This is important for attracting potential buyers and achieving a successful sale. 

 

Getting your house valued can also provide clarity on your financial standing, which is important for planning your next steps, whether it’s buying another home, investing or other financial goals. 

 

In order to value your home, most estate agents will:

The value of your home is primarily determined by the current housing market conditions in your area. This includes the recent sale prices of comparable properties (comps), also known as Comparative Market Analysis (CMA).

Some estate agents will carry out the appraisal themselves, while others will hire a third party to do it for them. They will consider the size, condition, location and features of your home.

Many online estate agent websites offer free valuation tools that can give you an estimate based on local sales data and trends, although these are used as onboarding mechanisms to get your email for their database.

Traditional estate agents usually offer a more personalised and detailed house valuation based on in-depth local market knowledge and on-site visits. They often have extensive experience and can provide a comprehensive market analysis and price recommendations.

 

Online estate agents on the other hand often rely on automated valuation models (AVMs) that use data from recent house sales in the area to estimate your home’s worth. The valuation will be less personalised as it will not involve an in-person visit, but some online estate agents like Purplebricks will include virtual valuations.

 

Modern estate agents are hybrid by nature, and use both in-person valuations as well as online house valuations to create an accurate valuation based on your property within the current market and its condition. 

 

What should be the asking price of my house?

Setting the right asking price is a key element of your marketing strategy, as it is the primary factor that will affect the number of potential buyers you receive, and how fast your house will sell.

 

The asking price influences buyers’ perception for the home’s value. A well-chosen house price can generate interest and potentially lead to competitive bidding. Knowing the right asking price allows for flexibility in negotiating and it gives you a starting point that can be adjusted based on buyer feedback and offers.

 

In order to set the right asking price, your estate agent will:

They will look at the asking prices of similar homes in your neighbourhood, as pricing competitively can attract more buyers and lead to multiple offers.

They will then consider the current state of the housing market. In a seller’s market, the house price may be slightly higher, while in a buyers market, the pricing may be lower in order to be competitive.

You and your estate agent will need to be prepared to adjust the asking price based on feedback from showings and the level of interest in your home.

With The Property Selling Company, you can sell your home in as little as 28 days. This quick turnaround time is beneficial for those looking to sell their home without the lengthy process typical of traditional estate agents or the potential delays with purplebricks.

Traditional estate agents may provide more strategic advice on setting the asking price, considering nuances like market trends, local demand and the estate agent’s negotiation strategy. 

 

They will typically offer more support and guidance throughout the pricing process, including the ability to adjust the asking price based on feedback from showings and interest levels. 

 

Online estate agents, on the other hand, use data-driven tools to suggest an asking price. This may be less flexible and more rigidly based on statistical models. Homeowners might have more responsibility for setting and adjusting the asking price themselves, although some online estate agents offer consultations for this purpose. 

 

Modern estate agents, such as The Property Selling Company, use advanced online tools and data analytics to assess your home’s value and understand market trends. Our knowledgeable Regional Managers, who possess in-depth knowledge of their areas, provide insights into regional market dynamics.

How long will it take to sell my home?

Understanding the expected timeframe helps in planning your move and managing the logistical aspects such as the transition to a new home, employment changes or sending your kids to school.

 

The duration your home is on the market can have financial implications like ongoing mortgage payments, utility bills, and maintenance costs. A quicker house sale can minimise these expenses.

 

The question “how long will it take to sell my home?” can give great insight into current market conditions and the estate agent’s experience and effectiveness. An estate agent with a good track record of quick sales is likely to have a strong marketing strategy and good negotiation skills.

 

Here are all the things that could affect your time to sell on the open market:

The average time to sell can vary based on whether it’s a buyers or sellers market. Generally, homes sell faster in a sellers market.

Homes priced correctly tend to sell faster. Overpriced homes can linger on the market, while competitively priced homes attract more interest.

Desirable locations with good schools, amenities, and transport links tend to see quicker sales.

Homes in good condition with modern features and curb appeal, are more attractive to buyers and often sell more quickly.

Effective marketing strategies, including professional estate agent photography, online listings, and house staging can significantly impact the speed of sale.

A proactive and experienced estate agent can streamline the selling process and speed up the sale of your home.

On average, homes in the UK sell within 8 to 12 weeks, but this also takes into account cash house buyers who can buy in as little as 7 days, and property auctions which can help you sell within 28 days. 

 

Traditional estate agents will be able to provide you with an estimate based on your local market experience and previous sales. Their close relationships with buyers and knowledge of local market trends can lead to a more accurate prediction. 

 

High street estate agents will use local marketing strategies and their access to personal networks to speed up the sale process as much as they can. However, traditional estate agents are the slowest route to sale, with many houses sitting on the market for upwards of 2 months, and completing in 4 months. 

 

Online estate agents might provide you with a broader estimate based on their general market data rather than local expertise. They rely heavily on online listings and digital marketing, which can attract a wide audience, but they lack the personalised touch of traditional methods. Hence, online estate agents can also take upwards of 2 months to sell.

 

Modern estate agents on the other hand, like The Property Selling Company can help you sell your house in as little as 28 days, with most house sales and completion times sitting at around 6 weeks. Modern estate agents are the fastest estate agency model.

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What should I avoid asking an estate agent?

When working with an estate agent to sell a house, it’s important that you maintain a professional and respectful relationship. Here are some questions you should avoid asking, along with explanations for why they might not be appropriate:

Asking to list your house above its market value can be problematic. Overpricing can result in the house sitting on the market for too long, leading to a lack of interest from potential buyers. This can eventually force price reductions, which might make buyers suspicious of the house’s condition or value. 

 

The Property Selling Company will always provide accurate and realistic house valuations based on current market conditions. We use our expertise to set a competitive and fair price, helping to avoid overpricing that can deter potential buyers and prolong the selling process.

This question is inappropriate and unprofessional. It undermines the estate agent’s professionalism and can damage the working relationship. Most estate agents work hard to earn their commission, and implying desperation can come across disrespectful.

 

We operate with professionalism and integrity, ensuring transparent communication about fees and commissions (there aren’t any). Our focus is providing quality service and achieving the best results for our house sellers rather than appearing desperate for commissions.

Negotiating commissions is part of the business, but outright asking for a lower commission can be seen as undervaluing the estate agent’s expertise and effort. Instead, discuss the services included in their fee and see if there are any adjustments that can be made without devaluing their work. 

 

The Property Selling Company offers competitive commission rates from the outset, which are clearly outlined. This eliminates the need for uncomfortable negotiations and ensures you understand the value of the service provided.

Privacy laws and professional ethics prevent estate agents from sharing the personal contact details of prospective buyers. This question can put the estate agent in an uncomfortable position and is generally inappropriate.

 

We follow strict privacy laws and ethical guidelines, protecting the contact details of prospective buyers. We handle all communications professionally, ensuring a seamless and secure process for both our sellers and our buyers.

If an estate agent suggests repairs or improvements, it’s usually to enhance the property’s marketability and value. Dismissing their advice can hinder the sale process and potentially reduce the sale price. It’s better to discuss and understand the rationale behind their recommendations. 

 

Our experienced estate agents may provide expert advice on necessary repairs or improvements to improve your home’s appeal and market value. But, most of the time this is not needed as we can sell your home as-is due to the nature of our pre-vetted buyers and investors.

Here at The Property Selling Company, we specialise in quick open market sales, and can complete house sales far faster than traditional estate agents. In fact, where it can take 16 weeks to complete with a traditional estate agent, we can help you achieve it in as little as 6 to 10 weeks. 

 

You won’t ever have to worry about upfront costs, as our fees are deducted from the buyer’s purchase price, which makes the entire process far more financially manageable. And, we will handle and cover all of the legwork, including marketing, negotiations, and the conveyancing process, providing a hassle-free selling experience.

We can help you twice as fast as estate agents

More frequently asked questions for estate agents

Understanding an estate agent’s marketing strategy is important as it directly affects your home’s visibility and sale speed. Effective marketing strategies include professional photography, virtual tours and listings on high-traffic property portals like Rightmove and Zoopla.

 

Here at The Property Selling Company, we take a holistic approach to selling your house, and we conduct professional photos, virtual tours, and listings on the major property portals to reach a wide audience quickly.

Market conditions fluctuate. Asking this question helps you gauge the current market climate and whether it’s favourable for selling, potentially maximising your profit. 


We have a great guide on whether it is a good time to sell or not.

Traditional estate agent fees range from 1% to 3% +VAT of your selling price, online estate agent services can range from “free” to £1,499+, and modern estate agents are completely free. We charge no fees for our services, and we will even cover your legal fees.

Understanding when fees are due is important for financial planning. Some online estate agents charge upfront, while traditional estate agents deduct fees upon completing the sale. We do not charge any fees at any stage of the selling process.

The contract length affects your flexibility. Shorter contracts allow for reassessment if the estate agent’s performance is unsatisfactory, while longer contracts may lock you in. Our contracts are flexible, designed to suit your needs without long-term commitments.

Virtual tours can improve property exposure, especially in our digital age where buyers prefer viewing homes online, and as a result can attract more buyers who wouldn’t otherwise be able to physically visit.

 

Here at The Property Selling Company, we support virtual tours as they can enhance property visibility and attract more potential buyers. Virtual tours can come in many forms, and most of our houses will be filmed by our regional managers.

Knowing where your house will be listed ensures it reaches a broad audience. Major property portals like Rightmove and Zoopla are essential for maximum visibility. 

 

Your house will be listed on major property websites including Rightmove and Zoopla, as well as our own website.

Understanding the estate agent’s success rate with similar homes gives insight into their effectiveness and what you can realistically expect.

 

We aim to sell all houses in as little as 28 days, but if you would like to know more about your property type, then please feel free to contact one of our estate agents.

An estate agent’s geographic coverage can affect their market knowledge and buyer pool. Ensuring they cover your area is essential for a successful sale.

 

We are a leading nationwide modern estate agent, and therefore operate across England and Wales. We currently do not operate in Northern Ireland or Scotland (this may change in the future).

Experience can indicate an estate agent’s proficiency and ability to handle various market conditions and challenges effectively. 

 

The Property Selling Company has been operating since 2018, and is part of one of the UK’s leading house selling solution companies, which has been operating since 2012. We have over a century of combined experience in our ranks, and have helped hundreds, if not thousands of people move house.

Confirming the areas covered ensures the estate agent has local market knowledge and can attract buyers specifically interested in your region. 

 

We cover all regions of England and Wales, with Regional Managers in the North and South who are available to visit your home. Our headquarters is in Wetherby in Leeds.

Membership in professional bodies like The Property Ombudsman ensures the estate agent adheres to high standards and ethical practices, providing you with protection.

 

We are members of The Property Ombudsman, which not only means we follow high standards and fair practices, but also allows you access to a Redress Scheme if anything ever did go wrong, although we will do everything in our power to make sure you have a happy and satisfying experience.

An estate agent’s track record with similar homes can indicate their expertise in handling homes like yours and achieving successful sales.

 

We have a strong track record of selling homes quickly and at competitive prices, helping hundreds of homesellers over the past 6 years we’ve been in business. If you want more details on how we’ve helped similar homes to yours, please get in touch today.

Effective negotiation and sales progression are vital for securing the best price and ensuring a smooth sale process.

 

At The Property Selling Company, we handle all negotiations and have an in-house progressions team that will push sales through to completion, while communicating with solicitors so you don’t have to.

Preparing your house for sale will impact its appeal and value. Knowing what improvements or home staging is necessary can improve its marketability.


We would recommend that you decluttered, cleaned and made any minor repairs to improve your home appeal. We have many guides on our website on this.

An accurate asking price is vital to attract buyers and avoid overpricing or underpricing. Understanding the valuation process helps set realistic expectations.

 

We use comprehensive market analysis and expert valuations to set competitive asking prices. We will do everything we can to ensure that your home is never overpriced or underpriced.

Local market knowledge is important for effective pricing, marketing and attracting the right buyers. An estate agent experienced in your area can provide valuable insights.

 

We have extensive knowledge of local markets across England and Wales, tailoring our approach to each area.

A house survey can identify potential issues that might affect the house sale. Knowing whether to get one helps in preemptively addressing any problems.

 

As part of our house selling service, we will recommend that a house survey is completed on your house. We will cover this, and you won’t have to worry about paying for it. This provides clarity on your house’s condition to potential buyers and helps us give it an accurate asking price.

An estate agent’s credentials and qualifications ensure they have the necessary training and expertise to handle your house sale professionally.

 

The Property Selling Company is accredited by The Property Ombudsman, all of our buyers are AML checked, and we have a proven track record within the industry.

Understanding the estate agent’s negotiation tactics can give you confidence in their ability to secure the best price for your home. Our experienced team manages all negotiations to secure the best possible price for your home.

Comprehensive support throughout the process ensures a smoother experience and helps in addressing any issues promptly. 

 

We offer full support, from initial valuation to completing the sale, utilising our team of estate agents, underwriters, panel of solicitors and our progressions team, to ensure a smooth selling process.

Regular updates and communication are essential for staying informed about your sale’s progress and addressing any concerns timely.

 

We will provide you with regular updates and are always available for any questions or concerns. Our estate agency team are experts in their field, and our progressions team are always on hand.

Knowing what sets an estate agent apart can help you choose one that aligns with your needs and offers unique advantages. 

 

Our no-fee model, full estate agency service, and commitment to helping you sell in as little as 28 days sets us apart from all the rest. We are the only modern estate agency on the market operating at this level and service.

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