When Do Estate Agent Fees Need to Be Paid? A UK Seller's Guide
Thinking of selling in Swindon, Solihull, Stevenage, or the Home Counties? One of the most common questions we hear at Avocado Property is: when do you actually pay your estate agent? This guide explains how different agency models work—and why we believe you should only pay when the job is done.
If you’re selling your home in Swindon, Solihull, Stevenage or anywhere across the Home Counties, understanding when you have to pay your estate agent is just as important as knowing how much they charge. It's one of the most common questions we get asked at avocado property, especially by first-time sellers or those who haven’t moved in a while.
Let’s take you on the journey of a typical home sale, highlight the different agency models in the UK and explain why at avocado property, we only get paid when the job is done because that’s how it should be.
The Selling Journey: What Happens Before You Pay
Selling a home is a process. It’s not just about putting a sign up and waiting for offers. Here’s how the typical journey plays out for home sellers across the UK:
- Valuation – You invite one or more estate agents to visit and value your property. This is your first chance to ask the important questions: How much do they charge? When are fees due? What do they include?
- Instruction – You choose your preferred agent and sign a contract. This outlines the fee structure, marketing plan, and terms of service.
- Marketing – The agent prepares photography, floorplans, video tours, and starts promoting on social channels (preferably well before the property is placed on portals such as Rightmove and Zoopla.)
- Viewings & Offers – Interested buyers are shown the property. Offers are received, qualified, and communicated to you with advice.
- Negotiation – Your agent negotiates the best possible outcome – not just in price, but also the buyer's position and timeline.
- Sale Agreed – You accept an offer. Legal paperwork starts with solicitors instructed on both sides.
- Exchange of Contracts – This is when the deal becomes legally binding. A completion date is agreed.
- Completion – On moving day, keys are handed over, funds are transferred, and your agent’s invoice is settled from the sale proceeds.
This means that in a traditional estate agency model, like ours at Avocado Property, you don’t pay a penny until completion day. It’s truly a no-sale, no-fee service.
Are There Different Estate Agent Payment Models in the UK?
Yes, and it's important to understand the differences before committing. Estate agent fees in the UK can be structured in several ways depending on the type of agency you choose.
Many online-only or fixed-fee agents require upfront payment. That means you could still be out of pocket even if your home doesn't sell. Always check the fine print.
📆 The Avocado Approach: Pay on Completion Only
At avocado property, we do things differently. We believe estate agents should earn their fee through performance, not just promise. That’s why we operate on a strictly pay-on-completion basis.
- No upfront charges
- No hidden marketing fees
- No small print catch
Our agents are self-employed partners. They only get paid when you get paid. So, it’s in their best interest to work hard, move fast, and negotiate smartly to get you over the line.
That includes chasing solicitors, keeping buyers engaged, managing chains and solving problems before they derail the sale. Our agents aren’t just motivated by pride or professionalism (though they have plenty of both!) They’re motivated by the same thing you are: getting the deal done.
When you complete, their fee is paid from the sale proceeds via your solicitor, which means no admin headaches or unexpected bills.
🚀 Why This Model Works for Sellers
For homeowners across the Home Counties, Solihull, Swindon, Stevenage, and beyond, this approach provides total peace of mind:
- You can budget confidently with no upfront cost.
- You only pay if the agent successfully sells your home.
- You know your agent is incentivised to see the sale through to the end.
It also aligns your goals with theirs. Your success is their success. Your delay is their delay. Your win is their win.
That’s why Avocado agents go above and beyond to drive each move forward—because they’re not just chasing commission. They’re supporting their families, growing their local businesses, and proving a better model for the property industry.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Pay Until It’s Done
When choosing an estate agent, don’t just look at the percentage figure. Ask:
- When are fees due?
- What do they cover?
- What happens if the house doesn’t sell?
The answers will reveal a lot about how that agent truly operates. Because the best estate agents back themselves and back you as a result.
📅 Book a Free Valuation with Avocado Property
Want to find out how much your home is worth and how we'd sell it? Book a free, no-obligation valuation with your local avocado property partner today. No upfront fees. No pressure. Just expert advice from agents who only get paid when you move.