Market Insights: Are All Estate Agents the Same?

When selling a property, it’s natural to assume that all estate agents are the same. After all, isn’t their job simply to list your home, find a buyer, and close the sale?
But as the housing market has evolved, so have the different types of agencies and the services they provide. From corporate chains to small independent firms, each estate agent offers a unique approach to selling property. In this blog, we explore the differences between estate agents and explain why it’s crucial to choose the right one to secure the best deal for your home.

Not all Estate Agents do the same job!
There’s a common perception that estate agents are interchangeable, that the only difference is the fee they charge. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In today’s market, the role of an estate agent goes far beyond listing a property and waiting for offers to roll in. The strategy they use to sell your home, the level of commitment they show, and their negotiating skills can significantly impact the final sale price.

There are various types of estate agents to choose from, other than the common “Corporate” and ‘independent’ ore commonly mentioned:

The type of agent you choose should depend on your specific needs. For example, independent or franchise style agencies may provide a more personalised service, while corporate agencies can have access to regional or national networks.

The Importance of Strategy
Choosing the right estate agent isn’t just about picking one who can list your home. It’s about selecting someone with the right strategy. A skilled agent will know how to price your property correctly from the start, understand market conditions, and negotiate to get you the best possible price. This is crucial because overpricing a property by £20,000 or £30,000 could lead to prolonged time on the market and eventually a need to drop the price—leading to a poorer final sale result.

A good agent will know the local market intimately and be able to position your property at the right price to attract serious buyers, not just speculative offers. What you really want is to work with someone who can get you as close to the asking price as possible—ideally within 2% or less.

Net Price Matters
It’s tempting to focus on agency fees when choosing an agent, but what matters most is the net figure—the amount of money you’ll receive after all fees and expenses are deducted.
A more expensive agent who secures a higher sale price could leave you with more money in your pocket than a cheaper agent who struggles to close the deal.

For instance, let’s say one agent charges a 1% fee but consistently sells homes for 5% below the asking price, while another agent charges 1.5% but sells homes within 2% of the asking price. The second agent, although seemingly more expensive, might actually net you a much higher final sale price.

The Role of Negotiation
The most critical aspect of an estate agent’s role is negotiation.

A competent agent doesn’t just market your home; they actively negotiate to get you the best price possible. This is where experience and dedication really come into play. Some agents are excellent at building rapport with potential buyers and persuading them to stretch their offers, while others may not be as proactive in securing the best deal for you.
What to Look For in an Estate Agent

When choosing an estate agent, look beyond the fees. Consider their track record, their approach to selling homes, and their passion for achieving the best outcome for you. Ask yourself the following questions:

• How well do they know the local market?
• What is their pricing strategy?
• How do they approach negotiations?
• Are they committed to achieving the best possible price for you?
• Can they explain their strategy for marketing and selling your home?

In short, the right agent will provide a comprehensive service tailored to your needs, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

Conclusion
In today’s competitive market, estate agents are not all the same. The type of agency, the strategy they use, and their ability to negotiate all play a significant role in determining the final sale price of your property. Rather than focusing solely on fees, it’s important to consider the net result—what you will end up with after the sale. A skilled agent will deliver a higher price, even if their fees are slightly higher, by using their expertise to secure the best deal for your home.

If you have any questions or are ready to sell, contact us at movinghome@mchugohomes.co.uk. And if you're curious about the sale value of your property, we offer a FREE no-obligation market appraisal. Visit McHugo Homes to learn more.