Sellers ask this early. Traditional high-street agents usually charge 1–3% + VAT of the final sale price (plus any extras), while online or fixed-fee agents offer flat rates from a few hundred pounds up to around £2,000–£5,000. Always clarify:

• Is it sole agency, multi-agency, or sole selling rights?
• When is the fee payable (usually on exchange of contracts or completion)?
• Are there additional costs for photography, floorplans, advertising, or “For Sale” boards?

People want to know the difference between sole agency (only you can sell via that agent) and multi-agency (multiple agents, higher fees). Ask about the minimum period (often 8–12 weeks), notice period to cancel, and whether “ready, willing and able” buyer clauses or part-exchange protections apply. Many sellers negotiate shorter tie-in periods or sliding-scale fees.

Buyers and sellers both ask this. Agents explain their strategy: Rightmove, Zoopla, social media, email campaigns, professional photography/videos, virtual tours, open days, and local advertising. Good agents highlight what makes your property stand out and how they target the right buyers (e.g., first-time buyers, investors, or families).

This is very common in 2026. Agents will discuss current market conditions, interest rates, stamp duty changes, supply vs demand in your area, and any upcoming infrastructure projects. In a balanced or rising market, they may say yes; in slower periods, they focus on motivated sellers or well-priced properties.

Sellers want realistic timescales (typically 3–6 months from listing to completion, but it varies). Buyers ask about the conveyancing process, how long chains take, and potential delays from surveys, mortgages, or searches. Factors like a chain-free cash buyer speed things up significantly.

A top question from buyers during viewings. Agents may know reasons like job relocation, upsizing/down-sizing, or divorce. If it’s been listed a long time or had price reductions, it can indicate negotiation room. Also common: “Have there been any previous offers, and how much?”

• (Schools, transport, amenities, crime, future developments) Especially popular with first-time buyers and families.
• Agents provide details on local schools (Ofsted ratings), commuting times, nearby shops/parks, and planned developments that could affect value (positively or negatively).

Buyers frequently ask this. Typically 5–10% minimum for a mortgage, but 10–25%+ gets better rates. Additional costs include stamp duty land tax (SDLT — higher for second homes or additional properties), legal fees (£1,500–£3,000+), survey costs, and moving expenses. Agents often advise getting a mortgage in principle first.

Sellers worry about wasted time and fees. Agents explain the process: offer acceptance → solicitor involvement → surveys → exchange of contracts (legally binding) → completion. They also cover what happens with gazumping (higher offer accepted) or if the buyer pulls out before exchange. Buyers ask about surveys (homebuyer report vs full building survey) and how to proceed safely.

These questions help people make informed decisions and avoid common pitfalls. Estate agents must answer honestly under the Estate Agents Act and codes of practice from The Property Ombudsman (TPO). Always get everything in writing, compare multiple agents, and consider getting independent advice (e.g., from a solicitor or mortgage broker) before signing any agreement.

If you’re a seller or buyer preparing to speak to agents, preparing these questions in advance can lead to much clearer conversations. Let me know if you’d like sample wording for asking these, or how they tie into your sole agency/part-exchange clause from earlier!