Estate agent fees in England typically range from 1% to 3% plus VAT, which translates to 1.2% to 3.6% including VAT. The national average sits around 1.5% plus VAT, meaning a seller in SA7 with a property valued at £250,000 would typically pay between £3,000 and £9,000 in agent fees. However, fee structures vary significantly between agents, with some offering fixed fees while others charge percentage-based commissions.
In the SA7 market, high-street agents with established local presence often charge towards the higher end of this range, justified by their local market knowledge, physical office overheads, and personal service. Online agents typically charge fixed fees regardless of property value, which can work out considerably cheaper for higher-priced properties but may not offer the same level of local expertise or marketing support. Always ask exactly what is included in the fee, as some agents bundle photography, floorplans, and premium portal listings while others charge extra.
Beyond the basic fee, sellers should consider additional costs such as conveyancing referrals, EPC costs, and any fees for virtual tours or premium marketing features. Some agents offer no-sale-no-fee arrangements, which protect sellers if their property fails to sell, though these often come with higher upfront fees. We always recommend getting a full breakdown of all costs in writing before instructing an agent, and comparing at least three different agents to ensure you are getting value for money.