What is a DIY agent?
We call them DIY agents rather than simply 'online' agents because your high street estate agent will also offer some form of online service. Estate agents will advertise your property on the different property portals and will have other online advertising options available to you. A DIY agent is effectively a do-it-yourself agency service; you liaise directly with potential buyers to book your appointments, you carry out the viewings and you answer all the questions. In some instances, you will have to go through the sales progression too, which can be tricky if you are in a chain, or if things go wrong.
What is the difference between a high street agent and a DIY agent?
There are many services available to the public with varying degrees of support. The table below is for guideline purposes only and will give you a better idea of what to expect from your estate agent versus a DYI agent.
Before you decide to instruct an agent, we advise you to do your research and know exactly what is included in their fees and what you would have to pay extra for.
| |
Typical High Street Agent |
Typical DIY Agent |
|
No sale, no fee
|
✔
|
X |
|
Up-front, flat-fee
|
X |
✔ |
|
Database of potential buyers your property can be marketed to
|
✔ |
X |
|
Match making service: bringing buyers and property together
|
✔ |
X |
|
Excellent local knowledge
|
✔ |
X |
|
Realistic valuations based on local knowledge
|
✔ |
X |
|
Marketing: brochures, advertising in print (local/national newspapers and magazines)
|
✔
|
X |
| Potential buyers vetted to avoid time wasters or people who cannot afford it |
✔ |
X |
|
Arranging viewings on your behalf
|
✔ |
X |
|
Accompanied viewings at no extra cost
|
✔ |
X
|
|
All negotiations professionally handled on your behalf
|
✔ |
X |
|
All offers checked for mortgage requirements and complete chain details
|
✔
|
X |
|
Proactive sales progression at no extra costs
|
✔ |
X |
|
Professional counter-survey negotiations
|
✔ |
X |
|
Local, community-minded support and sponsorship
|
✔
|
X |
|
Presence on the high street
|
✔ |
X |
A DIY option may be right for some people, but there can be more to selling your home than it might at first seem. Doing your research is key and can save you losing money instructing a DIY agent which turns out to be a poor fit for you and your property.
Find your nearest Guild Member here to start a no-obligation discussion about what you might be looking for.
If you would are looking for more advice on moving home, take a look at our easy-to-follow guides.
