A Guide to the Best Online Estate Agents in the UK
Online estate agents have revolutionised the UK property market by offering cost-effective, convenient alternatives to traditional high-street agencies. By utilising technology, these agents streamline the property buying and selling process, often at a fraction of the cost of traditional estate agents. In this guide, we explore how online estate agents work, compare the top players in the market, and examine the benefits and challenges of using online estate agents to sell or buy property in the UK.
Online estate agents allow homeowners to sell or rent properties using digital platforms rather than traditional high-street branches. They provide a range of property services such as valuations, listings, viewings, and negotiations—often for a fixed fee or lower commission. Unlike traditional agents, many online estate agents operate primarily through websites or apps, with limited face-to-face interaction.
There are two main types of online estate agents:
Pure Online Estate Agents: These agents operate fully online and typically charge a fixed fee for their services. They offer minimal in-person services but cover everything digitally, from listings to negotiation.
Hybrid Estate Agents: Hybrid agents combine online tools with in-person services such as property viewings and valuations. They often have local representatives to assist with parts of the process that require physical presence.
The process for selling a home through an online estate agent is generally straightforward:
Step 1: Property Valuation: Online agents often provide instant online valuation tools, but hybrid agents may send a local representative for an in-person valuation to give a more accurate figure.
Step 2: Listings and Marketing: Once the property is listed, online agents advertise it on major property portals such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and PrimeLocation, reaching a broad audience of potential buyers or renters.
Step 3: Viewings: Depending on the service package, homeowners can either host viewings themselves or request that the agent arranges accompanied viewings. Some online agents offer virtual viewings using 3D tours or videos.
Step 4: Offers and Negotiations: Online platforms allow sellers to track offers and communicate with potential buyers. The agent will typically handle negotiations, ensuring you receive the best price for your property.
Step 5: Legal Processes: Some online estate agents offer conveyancing services or partnerships with legal professionals to assist with contracts, while others leave this step to the client.
Here are some of the leading online estate agents currently dominating the UK property market:
Purplebricks: One of the most recognised names in the online estate agent space, Purplebricks offers a fixed-fee structure and local property experts to assist with valuations and viewings. Their online platform allows sellers to manage the sale process from start to finish.
Yopa: A hybrid agent offering a blend of online services and in-person support from local property experts. Yopa charges a fixed fee, either upfront or on completion, and provides flexible packages depending on the level of service required.
Strike: Formerly known as HouseSimple, Strike offers a unique proposition by charging no fees for selling homes in certain areas, making money from add-on services like conveyancing and mortgage advice.
easyProperty: Known for offering a low-cost service with fixed fees, easyProperty provides online tools for sellers to manage their property sale, along with optional extras like hosted viewings and photography services.
Doorsteps: One of the cheapest online estate agents, Doorsteps offers fixed-fee packages starting from under £100. They provide marketing on major property portals but leave most of the work, like viewings, to the seller.
Online estate agents offer several advantages over traditional estate agents, making them an appealing option for many homeowners:
Cost Savings: Online agents typically charge a flat fee, which can be significantly lower than the commission rates of traditional agents, especially for high-value properties. This can save sellers thousands of pounds.
Convenience: Sellers can manage the entire process from home using online platforms, with tools for tracking offers, scheduling viewings, and handling negotiations. This flexibility is ideal for sellers who prefer to handle some aspects of the sale themselves.
Wider Reach: Online estate agents list properties on major property portals, ensuring maximum exposure to potential buyers or tenants. This can help properties sell faster and reach a larger audience.
Control and Transparency: Many online agents offer sellers live dashboards to track progress, feedback from viewings, and offers in real-time, providing more transparency throughout the process.
While online estate agents can be highly beneficial, there are some potential drawbacks to consider:
Upfront Fees: Many online estate agents charge a fixed fee upfront, regardless of whether the property sells. This can be a risk if your home doesn’t sell quickly or at the desired price.
DIY Viewings: Some online estate agents require sellers to conduct viewings themselves. While this can save money, it may be inconvenient for those with busy schedules or who prefer professional representation.
Limited Personal Interaction: Sellers who prefer in-person support throughout the sale process may find online agents lacking, as much of the communication is digital. Hybrid agents, however, offer a middle ground by providing some in-person services.
Variability in Service Levels: The quality of service can vary significantly between different online agents, so it’s important to research reviews and client feedback before choosing one.
Fraser Bond offers a hybrid model that combines the best of online convenience with expert in-person support. Here’s how we help clients with their property needs:
Tailored Marketing: We offer bespoke marketing strategies, combining online listings with targeted advertising to attract the right buyers or tenants.
Personalised Valuations: Our local property experts provide accurate valuations, considering both market trends and unique property features to ensure your home is priced competitively.
Professional Guidance: From negotiations to closing the deal, Fraser Bond’s experienced agents provide personal support throughout the transaction, ensuring that clients get the best outcome possible.
Flexibility: Our hybrid approach allows clients to choose the level of service that suits them best, whether they prefer an online self-managed sale or full-service in-person support.
Online estate agents are transforming the UK property market by offering cost-effective, convenient alternatives to traditional high-street agencies. Whether you’re looking to sell quickly, save on fees, or manage the sale process yourself, online estate agents provide a variety of services that cater to different needs.
However, the level of service and support can vary, so it’s essential to choose an agent that aligns with your requirements. Fraser Bond’s hybrid model offers the perfect balance, providing expert advice, flexible service packages, and full support throughout your property journey. Let us help you make the most of your property sale or purchase, whether online or through our dedicated in-person team.
