Using an estate agent can make selling easier, but it is one option rather than an automatic choice. The route that suits you depends on your property, how much work you want to handle and whether price or timing matters more.
What an estate agent can do for you
An agent can arrange marketing, manage enquiries and viewings, discuss offers and help keep a sale moving. Ask what is included in the service, who handles the viewings and how you will be updated. Compare more than the suggested asking price.
An agent’s estimate is useful context, but it is not a guaranteed sale price. Ask about relevant completed sales and how your home’s condition, lease or occupation affects the comparison.
Understand the contract and fees
Check the fee, VAT, minimum charges, contract length and cancellation terms before instructing an agent. Ask when the fee becomes payable and whether another buyer or selling route could still trigger it. Do not assume a later cash sale means an existing agency contract has no effect.
Selling privately means taking on more of the work
With a private sale, you arrange marketing, enquiries and viewings yourself. You still need the legal process and a way to assess the buyer’s ability to proceed. Consider whether you have time to manage the sale alongside a move or other responsibilities.
How a cash offer differs
A cash offer can give you a figure to compare without marketing the property first. It may be below the price achievable on the open market, and it still comes with property and legal checks. Ask who is buying and what conditions apply.
SellHouseFaster reviews property details and makes cash offers within 24 hours. If you proceed, a direct buyer purchases the property through the legal sale process. There is no obligation to accept. Requesting an offer is free and there is no selling fee payable to us. On a completed sale, we cover the seller’s solicitor or conveyancer fees and disbursements. Mortgage repayments or charges, taxes, moving costs and separate advice or unrelated legal matters are outside these sale legal costs.
Which option fits your circumstances?
- You can wait and want broad exposure: compare agents and their plans for marketing the property.
- You can manage enquiries yourself: assess the time and responsibilities involved in a private sale.
- Your buyer has withdrawn: a cash offer may provide another option while you review a broken chain.
- The home needs substantial work: compare selling as it stands with repair costs. Read about problem properties.
- Tenants are in place: discuss the tenancy and access arrangements before selecting the route.
Compare what you would receive after costs
Put the proposed sale price, fees, any repairs and likely ongoing costs side by side. Include your mortgage and other obligations where relevant. A higher headline figure does not automatically settle which route suits your plans.
For independent guidance, see GOV.UK’s guide to selling a home. For our role and the next steps, read how we work.
Start with an offer if you want to compare
Request your cash offer for a property in Greater Manchester. Share the relevant details and receive an offer within 24 hours, then decide whether to take it further.
