Selling a house is a significant financial decision, and understanding the associated costs is crucial to ensuring a smooth and successful process. While many sellers focus on estate agent fees, there are additional expenses that can catch you off guard if you’re not prepared. From marketing charges to legal fees, the cost of selling a house can add up quickly.
In this article, we’ll break down estate agent costs, uncover hidden fees, and highlight what sellers in the UK need to budget for.
Estate agent fees are typically one of the largest costs when selling a house. In the UK, traditional estate agents charge a percentage-based commission on the final sale price of your property. This usually ranges from 1% to 3% plus VAT, depending on the agent and the level of service provided. For example, on a £300,000 property, fees could range between £3,600 and £10,800.
Some estate agents offer fixed fees, which can be more predictable but may not include all services. When comparing estate agent costs, always ask for a breakdown of what’s included, such as professional photography, property listings, and viewings management.
While estate agent fees are a well-known expense, there are other hidden costs of selling a house that can take sellers by surprise. Here are some of the most common ones:
Many estate agents include marketing as part of their commission, but others may charge separately. These fees can cover professional photography, virtual tours, premium listings on property portals, and even video walkthroughs. Marketing costs can range from £200 to £1,000, depending on the scope of the campaign.
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is a legal requirement when selling a property in the UK. It provides buyers with information about the property’s energy efficiency. If your home doesn’t already have a valid EPC, you’ll need to obtain one before listing your property. The cost of an EPC is typically around £60 to £120.
Conveyancing is the legal process of transferring ownership of the property, and it requires a solicitor or licensed conveyancer. Conveyancing fees usually range from £800 to £1,500, depending on the complexity of the sale. These costs cover tasks such as drafting contracts, liaising with the buyer’s solicitor, and managing the transfer of funds.
Moving out of your home involves logistics and potentially professional removal services. Removal costs can vary significantly based on the distance and volume of belongings, with typical prices ranging from £300 to £1,500. Budgeting for this is essential, especially if you’re moving to a new area or downsizing.
If you have an outstanding mortgage on your property, your lender may charge a fee for early repayment or exiting the agreement. This is known as an early repayment charge (ERC) and can be a percentage of your remaining loan balance. Review your mortgage terms to understand whether you’ll face this cost.
To maximise your property’s appeal, you may need to invest in minor repairs or staging. This could include repainting, fixing leaky taps, or upgrading outdated fixtures. Home staging, such as hiring furniture or decor, can also help attract buyers but may cost anywhere from £200 to £2,000.
To avoid surprises, it’s essential to plan for all potential costs associated with selling a house. Here’s a breakdown to help you budget effectively:
| Expense | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| Estate agent fees | 1%–3% of sale price + VAT |
| Marketing fees | £200–£1,000 |
| Energy Performance Certificate | £60–£120 |
| Conveyancing fees | £800–£1,500 |
| Removal costs | £300–£1,500 |
| Mortgage exit fees | Varies (check with lender) |
| Repairs and staging | £200–£2,000 |
These costs highlight why it’s important to carefully select your estate agent and compare their services and fees. A good agent will provide value for money by offering expert advice, marketing expertise, and negotiation skills to secure the best possible sale price.
While estate agent fees are unavoidable (in most cases), there are ways to reduce the overall cost of selling a house:
While it’s tempting to focus solely on costs, choosing the right estate agent can make a significant difference to your sale’s success. The best estate agents will combine competitive fees with excellent service, local knowledge, and a strong marketing strategy.
Look for agents with a proven track record in your area, strong client reviews, and a commitment to achieving the best result for your sale. A good estate agent can help you avoid unnecessary delays, secure a better sale price, and ultimately offset their fees. Check out our reviews on Trustpilot.
At Chosen, we’ve decided to flip the traditional estate agent model on its head, providing a fantastic sales experience whilst giving the homeowner the choice of who pays our very competitive fee – sell for free, pay the fee or even split it with the buyer: you really can choose with Chosen. Find out more about our model.
Selling a house comes with various costs, from estate agent fees to legal and removal expenses. By understanding the potential costs upfront and budgeting accordingly, you can avoid unexpected surprises and ensure a smoother selling process.
Carefully selecting a local estate agent who provides transparent pricing, excellent service, and local expertise is key to maximising your return. If you’re ready to sell, start by requesting quotes and advice from reputable estate agents to ensure you’re fully prepared for the journey ahead.
Find out more about our unique home selling model, or request a free expert home valuation.