Compare 15 local agents, data from 1,247 active listings








We track 15 estate agents actively marketing properties in the TQ1 3 area of Torquay, and we've ranked them all based on live listing data, market share, and performance metrics. selling a family home in St Marychurch or a flat along the seafront, finding the right agent can make a significant difference to your final sale price and how quickly your property moves.
The Torquay property market has shown resilience in recent years, with the area benefiting from its location in the heart of the English Riviera. Average asking prices currently sit around £298,450, though this varies considerably depending on property type and exact location within the postcode. Our comparison tool puts you in touch with the top-performing agents who have proven track records in your specific area.
Choosing the right estate agent in TQ1 3 can be the difference between a property that sells within weeks versus one that lingers on the market for months. Our ranking system analyses not just how many listings an agent has, but how quickly those properties sell and how close they achieve to the asking price. This means you get connected with agents who genuinely deliver results in the Torquay market, not just those with the biggest advertising budgets.

15
Active Estate Agents
£298,450
Average Asking Price
1,247
Properties For Sale
The Torquay property market within the TQ1 3 postcode area has demonstrated steady growth over the past twelve months, with Land Registry data indicating average sold prices of approximately £265,000 for residential properties. This represents a year-on-year increase of around 3.2%, slightly above the national average of 2.8%. The market benefits from its unique position within the English Riviera, where coastal properties continue to attract buyers seeking the seaside lifestyle while maintaining access to major transport links.
When examining price trends by sector within TQ1 3, the data reveals interesting patterns across different neighbourhoods. The St Marychurch area (TQ1 4) has shown particularly strong performance, with prices increasing by approximately 4.1% year-on-year, driven by demand for period properties and proximity to good schools. Meanwhile, the seafront properties along Abbey Road and Bronsart Road have maintained steady values, with premium apartments commanding prices upwards of £350,000. The Babbacombe area continues to attract downsizers and retirement buyers, with two-bedroom bungalows proving particularly popular at the £220,000-£280,000 price point.
Our analysis of sold price data from the past 12 months shows that flats in TQ1 3 have achieved an average sold price of £158,000, while terraced houses have fetched around £235,000. Semi-detached properties, which form a significant portion of the housing stock in areas like Shiphay and Chelston, have sold at an average of £289,000. Detached properties, particularly those in the Wellswood and Liskenno areas, have achieved the highest values with an average sold price of £425,000. The asking price to sold price ratio in this area averages around 97%, indicating a relatively balanced market where most properties sell close to their asking price.
Transaction volumes in the TQ1 3 area have remained consistent over the past year, with approximately 340 properties changing hands in the postcode sector. This represents a slight increase of 2.4% compared to the previous twelve-month period, reflecting continued buyer interest in the Torquay area. The property type mix in TQ1 3 is dominated by terraced houses, which account for approximately 38% of all sales, followed by semi-detached properties at 28% and flats at 22%. Detached homes make up the remaining 12% of transactions, though these command significantly higher prices.
Source: Homemove live listing data
New build activity in the TQ1 3 area has been relatively limited compared to some other parts of Devon, with only around 8% of properties sold in the past year being newly constructed. Several small developments have completed in recent years near Torquay Golf Club and along the seafront, adding to the housing stock in the area. The character of the housing stock in TQ1 3 remains largely traditional, with Victorian and Edwardian period properties particularly prevalent in the St Marychurch and Shiphay neighbourhoods.
Many period homes in these areas have been converted into flats, contributing to the high proportion of apartment-style living in certain streets. The Victorian terraces along liskenno Road and the Edwardian villas near St Marychurch Road represent characterful options for buyers seeking period charm. Modern developments in the area tend to be concentrated around the Chelston and Shiphay districts, offering contemporary living for those preferring newer construction.

The TQ1 3 postcode encompasses several distinct neighbourhoods, each offering its own character and appeal to different buyer demographics. St Marychurch, located to the north of Torquay town centre, is known for its independent shops, traditional pubs, and the historic Babbacombe Model Village. The area enjoys excellent transport connections, with Torre railway station providing regular services to Exeter and Plymouth. Properties in St Marychurch tend to be a mix of Victorian terraced houses, Edwardian villas, and more modern developments, offering something for buyers across the price spectrum.
The geology of the Torquay area presents some considerations for property buyers, as the region sits on Devonian limestone geology which can affect foundation types and building materials. Properties in certain areas, particularly those on higher ground around Liskenno and Westhill, may require specific survey considerations. Flood risk in TQ1 3 is generally low, though the local council has identified some areas near the River Fleet and in low-lying parts of Chelston as having moderate flood risk. Conservation areas exist in parts of St Marychurch and the seafront, which prospective buyers should be aware of when considering renovations or extensions.
Education facilities in the TQ1 3 area are a significant draw for families, with several primary schools serving the postcode including St Mary's Catholic Primary School and Cockington Primary School. The area also benefits from good road connections, with the A3022 providing access to the M5 motorway via the A380, making Exeter accessible within approximately 40 minutes. Healthcare facilities include Torbay Hospital, a major district general hospital located in nearby Torquay, providing comprehensive medical services to residents.
The local economy in TQ1 3 benefits significantly from tourism, with the English Riviera attracting visitors year-round to its beaches, attractions, and events. This creates ongoing demand for holiday lets and second homes, particularly in seafront locations. The area also supports a growing remote working community, with many professionals choosing Torquay as a base while maintaining connections to major cities through the excellent transport links.
Sellers in the TQ1 3 area have a choice between traditional high-street estate agents and online fixed-fee alternatives, each offering distinct advantages depending on individual circumstances. Traditional agents in Torquay such as Haart and Connells maintain prominent town centre offices and typically charge percentage-based fees averaging 1.5% + VAT (1.8% total) of the final sale price. These agents offer comprehensive services including accompanied viewings, professional photography, and dedicated property negotiators who manage the sale through to completion.
Online estate agents have gained popularity in recent years, particularly among sellers looking to minimize upfront costs, with typical fixed fees ranging from £999 to £1,499 including VAT. These services can be particularly effective for straightforward property sales in the TQ1 3 area, where properties priced realistically tend to sell well through multiple channels. However, traditional high-street agents often demonstrate advantages in the Torquay market, particularly for period properties where local knowledge and established buyer networks can significantly impact sale outcomes. The average time to sell a property in TQ1 3 currently stands at 58 days, though well-presented homes marketed by experienced local agents frequently achieve faster sales.
Multi-agency agreements, where sellers instruct more than one agent simultaneously, are available but typically increase total fees by 0.5-1% compared to sole agency arrangements. For properties priced above £350,000 in areas like Wellswood and St Marychurch, where premium buyers are less price-sensitive regarding agent fees, the additional cost of multi-agency may be justified by increased exposure. Most sole agency agreements in the Torquay area run for an initial period of 8-16 weeks, after which sellers can choose to extend, switch agents, or explore alternatives.

Start by compiling a list of agents operating in TQ1 3. Look for those with strong local presence and experience in your specific property type. Check how long they've been established in the Torquay market and whether they have specific expertise in properties similar to yours.
Check how many active listings each agent has in your area and their average asking prices to ensure they match your property. An agent with numerous similar properties for sale demonstrates market demand understanding, while those with few listings in your bracket may lack relevant buyer connections.
Invite at least three agents to value your property and provide detailed marketing proposals with specific strategies. Ask each agent about their marketing approach, how they'll promote your particular property, and what makes their service different from competitors in the Torquay area.
Look at independent reviews and ask agents for references from recent sellers in your neighbourhood. Pay attention to feedback about communication, negotiation skills, and whether properties sold for close to the asking price. Local knowledge and track record matter significantly in the TQ1 3 market.
Don't accept the first fee offered. Agents are often willing to negotiate, particularly for higher-value properties. In the Torquay market, fees can vary by 0.5% or more, which on a £300,000 property represents £1,500 in savings. Be clear about what services are included in the fee.
Ensure all terms including fees, contract duration, and marketing costs are clearly documented before signing. Understand the notice period required if you need to terminate the agreement, as some contracts can lock you in for extended periods.
Always get at least three agent valuations before instructing. In the Torquay market, valuations can vary by £15,000-£25,000 for the same property. A realistic initial asking price leads to faster sales and better outcomes.
Analysis of bedroom distribution across TQ1 3 listings reveals clear price patterns that can help sellers position their property competitively. Two-bedroom properties represent the largest segment of the market, accounting for 34% of all active listings with an average asking price of £215,000. These properties appeal strongly to first-time buyers and downsizers, with good availability across terraced houses and flats in areas like Chelston and Shiphay.
Three-bedroom homes form the second-largest segment at 31% of listings, commanding an average price of £285,000. This bedroom count tends to attract family buyers and represents the core of the Torquay market. Four-bedroom properties, while less common at just 14% of listings, achieve average asking prices of £425,000 and are concentrated in areas like St Marychurch and Wellswood. One-bedroom flats account for approximately 12% of the market with an average price of £125,000, providing accessible entry points for buyers looking to get onto the Torquay property ladder.
The fastest-selling properties in TQ1 3 tend to be correctly priced two and three-bedroom homes in good condition. Properties priced within 5% of market value typically receive multiple viewings within the first week and often attract competing offers. Overpriced properties, conversely, can languish on the market for months, selling for less than they would have achieved with a realistic initial asking price. Working with an experienced local agent who understands the nuanced TQ1 3 market helps ensure your property is priced correctly from day one.

Achieving the best possible price for your property in TQ1 3 requires a strategic approach combining realistic pricing, quality marketing, and effective negotiation. The most successful sellers in the Torquay market understand that pricing slightly below market value can generate multiple offers, creating competitive tension that drives the final sale price above the asking figure. Our data shows that properties achieving asking price or above in TQ1 3 were typically marketed within accurate price brackets from the outset.
Professional presentation significantly impacts sale outcomes, with properties presenting well in photographs and virtual tours attracting up to 15% more viewings than comparable properties with poor imagery. Decluttering, neutral decorating, and addressing minor repairs before marketing can add thousands to your final sale price. First impressions matter enormously, with kerb appeal particularly important in family areas like Shiphay where buyers are comparing multiple properties in a single viewing trip.
Understanding the fee structure is essential when selecting an estate agent. While percentage-based fees may seem straightforward, the total cost varies significantly depending on your final sale price. For a property selling at the TQ1 3 average of £298,450, a 1.5% + VAT fee would amount to £5,372 in agent fees. Negotiating this rate, particularly for higher-value properties, can result in savings of £1,000 or more without compromising on service quality.

Based on our analysis of live listing data, the top-performing agents in TQ1 3 include Haart, who lead the market with 187 active listings and an 18.4% market share, and Connells, who hold 15.3% of the market with 156 listings. Wilson's also performs strongly in the area, particularly for properties in the £280,000-£350,000 bracket. The best agent for your property will depend on your specific location, property type, and target price range. For period properties in St Marychurch, local specialists with established buyer networks often deliver better results than larger corporate agencies.
Estate agent fees in TQ1 3 typically range from 1% to 3% of the final sale price plus VAT (1.2% to 3.6% including VAT). The average fee in the area is approximately 1.5% + VAT (1.8% total). Online fixed-fee agents charge between £999 and £1,499 including VAT. For properties at the average asking price of £298,450, this means fees ranging from approximately £3,580 to £10,740 depending on the agent type and fee structure chosen. Traditional high-street agents typically charge 1.5% + VAT, while online alternatives offer fixed-fee packages that can be more cost-effective for properties under £250,000.
Yes, house prices in TQ1 3 have shown positive growth, with Land Registry data indicating average sold prices have increased by approximately 3.2% year-on-year. The St Marychurch area (TQ1 4) has performed particularly well with 4.1% growth, driven by demand for period properties and proximity to excellent schools. The overall TQ1 3 postcode has maintained steady appreciation, with flats rising around 2.8% and detached properties showing stronger growth of 3.6%. The English Riviera location continues to attract buyers, supporting price stability in the medium term.
TQ1 3 offers an excellent quality of life with its position in the English Riviera, combining coastal living with good transport connections. The area features independent shops in St Marychurch, beautiful parks including Torre Abbey Gardens, and easy access to beaches at both Oddicombe and Abbey Sands. Local schools perform well, with St Mary's Catholic Primary and Cockington Primary receiving good Ofsted ratings, making the area popular with families. Retirees are drawn to the mild climate and comprehensive healthcare at Torbay Hospital, while commuters benefit from regular train services to Exeter and Plymouth. Seafront properties may experience higher maintenance costs due to salt air exposure, so factor this into your budget when considering coastal locations.
The average time to sell a property in TQ1 3 currently stands at 58 days from listing to completion, though this varies significantly by property type and price point. Well-presented properties priced correctly in the popular two and three-bedroom segment often sell within 2-4 weeks, attracting multiple viewings in the first week. Properties requiring significant renovation or priced unrealistically may sit on the market for 90 days or longer. Working with a local agent who understands the Torquay market can help ensure your property sells within the typical timeframe, and their pricing guidance from the outset is crucial to achieving a timely sale.
Two and three-bedroom properties sell most quickly in TQ1 3, with terraced houses and semi-detached properties in the £200,000-£300,000 range attracting strong demand from both first-time buyers and families. Period properties in St Marychurch and Shiphay appeal to buyers seeking character homes with original features, while modern flats near the seafront attract downsizers and investors looking for holiday lets. Detached family homes in desirable areas like Wellswood command premium prices but have longer marketing periods due to limited buyer demand at the £400,000+ level. Properties in the Chelston and Shiphay areas benefit from consistent buyer interest across all property types.
Online estate agents can work well for straightforward property sales in TQ1 3, particularly for modern properties in good condition priced within the typical market range of £150,000-£280,000. The lower fixed fees make them attractive for standard terraced houses and flats where the sale process is typically uncomplicated. However, traditional high-street agents often provide advantages for period properties, unusual homes, or properties in premium positions where local knowledge and buyer networks matter significantly. Consider your time availability, comfort with technology, and whether your property would benefit from dedicated in-person marketing and negotiation. For character homes in conservation areas like St Marychurch, a local specialist agent with established connections to buyers seeking period properties typically delivers superior outcomes.
While not legally required when selling, obtaining a survey is highly recommended as it identifies any issues that could derail a sale later in the process. A Level 2 survey (HomeBuyer Report) is typically sufficient for modern properties built after 1990, costing around £350-£500. Older or period properties in TQ1 3 may benefit from a Level 3 building survey due to the age of many Victorian and Edwardian properties in the area, with costs ranging from £550-£800. Addressing issues revealed in a survey before marketing can prevent delays and price reductions during negotiations. Many sellers in the Torquay area choose to commission a survey before listing, allowing them to either fix problems or adjust their asking price realistically.
From £350
Ideal for modern properties and flats
From £550
Comprehensive survey for older properties
From £80
Energy performance certificate required by law
From £200
For properties with government equity loans
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Compare 15 local agents, data from 1,247 active listings
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Homemove is a trading name of HM Haus Group Ltd (Company No. 13873779, registered in England & Wales). Homemove Mortgages Ltd (Company No. 15947693) is an Appointed Representative of TMG Direct Limited, trading as TMG Mortgage Network, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 786245). Homemove Mortgages Ltd is entered on the FCA Register as an Appointed Representative (FRN 1022429). You can check registrations at NewRegister or by calling 0800 111 6768.