“Can online estate agents really sell your home faster?”
“How much money will I save using them?”
I asked myself these questions after selling my first hundred properties. Truth is, most sellers waste time and money choosing the wrong way to sell.
My team has now sold over 1,000 homes across the UK. We’ve tested every selling method available.
In this guide, I’ll show you the truth about online agents. You’ll learn the hidden costs and actual selling times.
Most importantly, you’ll discover if they’re right for your sale.
Understanding Online Estate Agents
I’ve worked with both online and high street agents since 2015. In my experience, online estate agents have changed how we sell homes forever.
High street agents charge around 1-3% of your sale price. Online agents usually ask for a fixed fee instead. So I’ve seen this save sellers thousands of pounds.
When choosing an online agent, I look at three main things:
- How well they market properties on major websites
- Their track record of achieving good sale prices
- The support they give during viewings and negotiations
Some sellers worry about getting less support with online agents. I disagree. I’ve found that many online agents offer excellent service.
Choosing Your Agent
I always tell my clients to check what’s included. Some online packages offer:
- Professional photos and floor plans
- Listing on Rightmove and Zoopla
- A dedicated sales expert
- Help with viewings and offers
In my talks at property events, I explain the trade-offs…
You might need to handle viewings yourself and be more involved.
But you’ll save money on fees.
I’ve noticed that online agents work best for confident sellers. You should feel comfortable showing your home. You’ll also need to manage some more paperwork.
For example, property information forms, energy performance certificates, and viewing schedules. Managing offer negotiations and gathering feedback from viewings also becomes your responsibility.
Remember to read reviews carefully. I suggest looking at recent feedback. This shows how well they perform right now.
Based on my experience, online agents suit many modern sellers.
They offer good value if you’re willing to be more involved.
The Truth About Selling Times
I’ve tracked hundreds of sales through both methods since 2015. Let me share what I’ve found.
Online agents don’t automatically mean faster sales. I’ve seen similar timeframes to traditional agents.
Through my experience, these factors affect speed most:
- Your asking price
- Your property’s condition
- Your local market demand
- Your involvement in viewings
I’ve noticed property sales take 4-7 months on average. This is similar to traditional agents’ timelines (see more about this in the table below).
Some online sellers move faster.
I’ve seen homes sell in a few months. But this needs active involvement.
Based on my market analysis, timing depends on you. Quick responses and flexible viewing times help.
Remember, cheaper asking prices often mean faster sales. I always explain this trade-off to sellers.
Cost Benefits of Online Estate Agents
Traditional agents take between 1-3% of your final sale price. I’ve seen this reach £9,000 on a £300,000 house.
But online agents charge differently.
Most online agents ask for a fixed fee upfront. In my experience, this usually ranges from £500-£1,500. So the savings can be significant.
Watch Out For Extra Costs
I always tell sellers to check these potential extra charges:
- Professional photos (£100-200 extra)
- For sale boards (£40-60)
- Accompanied viewings (around £300)
- Premium listings on property websites
I’ve noticed some online agents offer different payment options. You can pay upfront or when you sell.
I prefer upfront payments.
They often give better value. But remember, you won’t get this back if your house doesn’t sell.
Through my work with quick-sale properties, I’ve spotted common patterns. The best deals combine good service with clear pricing.
Based on my market analysis, online agents save most sellers money. But you need to understand what you’re paying for.
I recommend checking exactly what each package includes. This helps avoid unexpected costs later.
Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always best.
The Online Property Selling Process
I’ve sold and bought hundreds of properties online since 2015. Let me walk you through what really works.
Getting the price right comes first.
I always check recent local sales (use Rightmove sold prices to do this accurately). Look for like for like comparables that have sold within the last 6 months i.e. a 3 bed terraced if that’s what you’re selling within ¼ mile radius of your location. This helps set a realistic asking price that attracts buyers.
Taking great photos makes a huge difference. I’ve seen good pictures double viewing requests. Professional shots are worth every penny.
Here’s what I do to prepare homes for photos:
- Clear all surfaces completely
- Open curtains fully for natural light
- Move cars from the driveway
- Mow the lawn if you have one
Managing viewings needs good planning. I recommend blocking them together at weekends. This creates a sense of competition as one person arrives as someone else is leaving.
Making the Sale Happen
I’ve learned to handle offers carefully. Quick responses keep buyers interested. But don’t feel pressured to decide instantly.
Through my experience with quick sales, I know timing matters. Keep these ready:
- Your solicitor’s details
- Mortgage paperwork
- Energy performance certificate
- Property information forms
Once you’ve accepted an offer, stay involved. I check progress weekly. This helps spot problems early.
Remember to keep paying your mortgage until completion.
You’d think this one was obvious, but I’ve seen sales fall through from missed payments.
Based on my expertise, online selling works well. But you must stay organised. So keep all paperwork up to date.
Marketing Reach and Property Visibility
Over the years I’ve learned what catches buyers’ eyes on property websites (I am a buyer so and I see poor ones all the time). Let me share my proven approach…
Making Your Property Stand Out Online
Rightmove and Zoopla drive most online property searches. I’ve seen homes get hundreds of views in their first week. Timing matters here.
I always list properties on Monday or Tuesday mornings. This catches people planning weekend viewings. Smart timing boosts early interest significantly.
It may seem counterintuitive but avoid listing on the weekend in my experience.
Maximising Your Online Presence
Through my experience, these listing features work best:
- Eight to ten high-quality photos
- A detailed but punchy property description (use a free AI writing tool like Claude to help)
- Floor plans that show room dimensions
- Virtual tours when possible
I’ve noticed buyers spend more time on detailed listings.
But keep your descriptions clear and honest.
Local Facebook groups help spread the word. I’ve had great results sharing listings there. This reaches buyers who know your area, and can tap into your existing network of friends and family to help share the word for you.
Premium listings cost extra but can work well. I’ve seen them double viewing requests as they appear higher in search results.
Your listing needs regular updates to stay visible.
Ooo and a sneaky hack for you: I refresh photos or descriptions monthly. This keeps your property appearing in new searches.
Remember to check your listing views regularly. I use this data to adjust our marketing approach. Based on my market knowledge, good online visibility sells homes faster. But you must maintain your listing carefully.
Professional Support and Service Features
Good agents offer different ways to contact them. I always check they’re available when needed. Evening availability helps busy buyers.
Your dedicated sales expert makes a huge difference. I’ve seen great ones solve problems before they happen.
Through my experience, these support features matter most:
- Instant viewing request updates
- Quick offer notifications
- Regular feedback reports
- Expert price negotiations
I recommend checking response times before choosing an agent. The best ones reply within hours, not days. So become a detective and send a few messages as a mystery shopper.
Working Together Effectively
Having helped many sellers, I know communication matters. Keep these contact details handy:
- Your agent’s direct number
- Their email address
- The office emergency contact
- Your online account login
Weekend support can be crucial.
I’ve often secured sales through Saturday viewings. Check what hours they offer.
Your agent should guide you through legal requirements. I always ensure sellers understand their obligations.
Remember to save all communication with buyers. I’ve found this helps if questions arise later. Based on my expertise, good support makes selling easier. But you must choose agents who match your needs.
Options For Selling Your Property
Using an online agent may be beneficial to you to save costs on fees. However, some people hate the more hands on approach required (and some people are not aware until they start the process!)
So there are other options available, check out the table below to see the pros and cons of each approach…
| Sale Method | Timeframe | Price Range | Fees | Hands-on Level | Additional Notes |
| Cash House Buyers | 7-28 days | 75-85% | None + legal fees covered | Minimal | Quickest most certain sale route |
| Traditional Auctions | 3-4 months | 75-90% | 2-3% + entry fee + legal fees | Medium | Exchange on auction day, in a physical auction house |
| Modern Method of Auction | 3-5 months | 75-90% | 2-3% + entry fee + legal fees | Medium | Online bidding, more flexible completion |
| Online Estate Agents | 4-7 months | 85-100% | Fixed fee i.e. £500-£1000 + legal fees | Very High | Self-manage viewings & marketing |
| Traditional Estate Agents | 6-9 months | 90-100% | 1-3% + VAT + legal fees | High | Regular viewings, negotiations |
| Assisted Sale (with or without cash advance) | ~12 months | 100% + | Mortgage payments deducted + renovation costs | Low | Can have partial upfront payment, buyer handles all refurb costs |
Finding Your Perfect Online Agent
Different agents offer varying levels of service. I always check their success rate first. Past sales tell you more than promises do.
Through my work with quick cash sales, I’ve spotted reliable signs. Good agents share clear evidence of their results.
Questions That Matter
I tell sellers to ask these essential questions:
- What happens if my home doesn’t sell?
- Who handles buyer questions after hours?
- Are there fees for changing my listing?
- How long does your package last?
Your agent should explain everything clearly. I’ve found that vague answers often mean hidden problems.
Based on my market experience, package features vary widely. Some include extras that others charge for.
I recommend reading recent reviews carefully.
Look for comments about communication. Fast responses show good service.
Take time comparing different packages. I’ve seen rushing cost sellers money later. The cheapest option isn’t always best. I focus on value instead. Better service often saves money overall.
Remember to get everything in writing. I’ve learned that clear agreements prevent future problems.
Choose agents who match your needs. I find sellers succeed when services fit their situation.
Why Choose Property Buyers Today Instead of An Online Estate Agent
After all of this I need to provide you with the honest truth about all estate agents (online or traditional).
They are not the best approach for many people looking to sell their home.
If speed is a priority for you, there is a big risk using either approach. You can have a buyer pull out at the last minute (in fact, 1 out of 3 sales fall through). Or you can find the price they promise gets zero interest… but you stil have to pay them fees for the privilege!
So we offer an alternative approach that may interest you…
- Guaranteed Purchase Price
- Zero Costs
- Fast Completion
- Professional Legal Service
- Free Property Valuation
- No Viewings Required
- All Properties Welcome
- Complete Support Package
When we give you a price for your house, that’s the amount you’ll get. Unlike estate agents, our offers don’t change during the sale process.
This means you can make solid plans for your future, knowing exactly how much money you’ll receive.
You won’t face any costs with us.
We handle all the expenses involved in buying your property, including legal fees and surveys. You get cash in your bank when the sale is complete, and there are no surprise estate agent commissions to worry about.
Most house sales take months, but we can buy your property in as little as 7 days.
This quick process is perfect if you need to move soon or want to avoid being stuck in a long chain of buyers and sellers. We have the cash on hand so don’t need to wait for mortgages or a chain to collapse.
Our expert team manages all the legal requirements for you.
We work with experienced property lawyers who make sure everything runs smoothly, and put your property at the top of their list. This gives you peace of mind that your sale is being handled properly from start to finish.
Our property experts will value your house at no cost to you.
They look carefully at your property and check local market prices to give you an accurate figure. This professional service comes with no obligations.
Forget about cleaning and tidying for viewings.
We don’t need multiple visits or open houses to make our offer. This means no strangers walking through your home, and no disruption to your daily life.
Whether your house needs work or is in perfect condition, we’ll buy it.
We have experience with all types of properties and conditions. This means you can sell your house to us no matter what state it’s in.
Our team supports you through the whole selling process.
We keep you updated about what’s happening and answer any questions quickly. You’ll always understand what’s going on with your sale and what happens next.
