Side by side
| Factor | Private sale | Estate agent |
|---|---|---|
| Fee | £0, or a small online listing fee | 0.75%–1.5% + VAT typically |
| Portal listings | Only via an agent or listing service | Included |
| Viewings and negotiation | You do them | Agent does them |
| Legal duty to give buyers accurate information | Yes — you | Yes — agent and you |
| Chasing the sale to completion | You and your conveyancer | Agent, conveyancers and you |
Figures are typical UK ranges, not quotes. Always check the contract you are offered.
When each one wins
Private sale
- Selling to someone you already know — family, neighbour, tenant
- High-demand home and a seller with time and confidence
Estate agent
- You want the widest set of buyers
- You would rather not negotiate face to face
Our take
If you already have a buyer, a private sale makes sense: you need a conveyancer, not an agent. If you do not, the fee is mostly paying for buyers you would not otherwise reach.
Questions sellers ask
Do I need an EPC for a private sale?
Yes. In England and Wales a valid EPC is needed to market a home, whoever is selling it.
Do I still need a conveyancer?
Yes. The legal transfer still needs a solicitor or licensed conveyancer, or very careful DIY conveyancing — most buyers' lenders will expect professional conveyancing.
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