In short
Get at least three valuations, then negotiate with the agent you actually want, not the cheapest. Ask for a lower rate, a shorter tie-in, a short notice period and no withdrawal fees. On a typical sale, every 0.25% off the fee is worth several hundred pounds — but an agent who achieves a better price is worth far more than that.
Last updated . Reviewed by FindYourAgent editorial.
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Before you negotiate
Your leverage comes from having other options.
- Book three valuations from agents with recent sold prices near you.
- Ask each for their fee and contract terms in writing.
- Work out what each fee is in pounds on your expected price, including VAT.
- Decide which agent you want to use before you start haggling.
What to ask for
Ask for two or three things, not everything.
- A lower percentage — or a tiered fee that rises only if they beat a target price.
- A tie-in of 8 weeks or less, and a notice period of 14 days.
- Sole agency, not sole selling rights.
- No upfront, marketing or withdrawal fees.
- Fee quoted including VAT, so there is no surprise at completion.
A script that works
Polite and specific beats aggressive.
- 'I'd like to instruct you. Another agent has quoted [rate] with an 8-week tie-in. Can you match that, or come closer to it?'
- 'I'm happy to pay your fee if you achieve [target price]. Would you consider [lower rate] below that?'
- 'Could you remove the withdrawal fee? If you do the job well I won't need it.'
Our take
Negotiate the contract terms harder than the percentage. A short tie-in and notice period cost the agent nothing if they do a good job, and they are your only real protection if they do not.
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