Are Estate Agent Valuations Free? And How Do Estate Agents Get Paid?
Thinking of selling or just curious about your home’s value? I’m Alistair, your local Bicester estate agent with Avocado Property. I offer free, no-obligation valuations and honest advice—no pressure, just clarity. Here’s what to expect, how we get paid, and why the right agent truly matters.
Hi, I’m Alistair – your local estate agent in Bicester and surrounding areas, proudly working with the team at Avocado Property.
Whether you’re just starting to think about moving, wondering what your home’s worth in the current market, or you’re deep into planning your next chapter, one of the first things many people ask me is: “Are valuations actually free?” And just as often, “How do estate agents actually make their money?”
Let’s break that down in real, straightforward terms—no fluff, no jargon.
Are Estate Agent Valuations Free?
Short answer: Yes, they are.
At Avocado Property, I offer completely free, no-obligation property valuations—whether you’re gearing up to sell soon or simply exploring your options. For me, it’s about providing clarity and helping you make informed decisions, not trying to pressure you into listing.
A valuation shouldn’t be a sales pitch—it should be a helpful, honest chat about what your home could achieve in today’s market.
Why Do Agents Offer Free Valuations?
Free valuations are part of how we build relationships—and at Avocado, that personal touch is everything.
You get:
- A professional, realistic view of your property’s value
- Insights into the local market from someone who actually lives and works in the area
- A chance to ask questions, explore timelines, and plan ahead—without any obligation
I get the opportunity to introduce myself properly, explain how I work, and potentially become the agent you trust to handle your sale. If you decide to move forward, great. If not, no problem—I’m still happy to have helped.
What Happens During a Property Valuation?
Here’s how it works when I come out to see you in Bicester or nearby:
- Quick chat – I’ll ask about any updates you’ve made, your plans, and what you’re hoping to achieve.
- Property walkthrough – I’ll take a look around, noting key features, layout, and the condition of your home.
- Market comparison – I’ll analyse recent sales and active listings locally to give you an accurate, evidence-based valuation.
- Honest feedback – You’ll get a straight-talking view of your home’s value, and practical advice on next steps—if and when you’re ready.
So, How Do Estate Agents Get Paid?
Here’s the honest answer: we only get paid if your property sells—at least that’s how I work at Avocado.
Most estate agents earn through a commission fee when the sale completes. There are typically two main ways this is structured:
1. Percentage-based fee (the standard)
- You pay a percentage of the final sale price—usually between 1%–2% + VAT.
- At Avocado, we tailor the fee to suit your circumstances, and I’ll always be upfront from day one.
2. Fixed fee (more common with online agents)
- Some agents offer a flat fee, but this often means minimal support and less hands-on service.
- Be careful here—sometimes you pay the fee regardless of whether the property sells.
🔑 My approach? No sale, no fee. That way, you know I’m just as motivated as you are to get the result you want.
Why a Good Estate Agent Is Worth the Fee
Let’s be honest—when you’re selling one of your biggest assets, cutting corners isn’t usually the smart move.
A skilled estate agent doesn’t just stick your house online and hope for the best. I’ll bring:
- Expert marketing across Rightmove, Zoopla, and social media
- Professional photography and video tours that make your property stand out
- Strong negotiation skills to secure the best possible price
- Step-by-step guidance from listing to completion
If I can help you achieve even £5,000 or £10,000 more on your sale price, that more than covers the fee—and gives you a stronger start on your next chapter.
In Summary
- Yes, valuations are free with Avocado Property—and there’s no pressure to list.
- I get paid only when your property sells—not before.
- Choosing the right estate agent in Bicester and surrounding areas makes a massive difference to your outcome, your experience, and ultimately, your wallet.
