Why You Shouldn 't Be Forced To Use The Agent You Found A Property With
Introduction
Selling your property is a huge step, and choosing the right estate agent is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during the process.
Unfortunately, some buyers feel pressured into using the same estate agent they found a property through when it comes to selling their own home.
Not only can this create conflicts of interest, but in some cases, this type of pressure may be considered unethical or even unlawful.
This guide explains why you should never feel forced to use a particular estate agent and how to choose the right one for your sale.
Do I Have To Sell With The Agent I Purchase Through?
The simple answer is no.
Just because you’re buying a property through a particular estate agent does not mean you are required to use them to sell your own home.
When selecting an estate agent, it’s important to take your time, compare your options, and choose the company that gives you the greatest confidence in their service, communication, and ability to achieve the best possible result.
Choose The Best Agent For Your Sale
Selling a property successfully is about far more than simply listing it online.
The right estate agent should have:
strong performance in your local area
a clear marketing strategy
excellent communication
positive client reviews
the ability to negotiate the best possible price
Choosing purely out of convenience could mean compromising on the outcome of your sale.
Performance In Your Area
Choose an agent known for their success in your postcode. However, don't just rely on the number of listed properties—look at how many properties they’ve sold as "subject to contract" (SSTC).
Tip: You can request this data directly from your shortlisted estate agents. It’s available to all agents through platforms like Rightmove.
Reviews & Strategy
Feedback from previous buyers and sellers can tell you a lot about how an estate agent performs when it matters most.
The ideal agent won’t just sell your property quickly — they’ll also have a well-thought-out strategy to help achieve the best possible price.
Pressure To Accept Lower Offers
The agent might prioritise securing the sale of the property you’re buying over achieving the best price for the one you're selling. This could lead to pressure to accept a lower offer on your home, even if it’s not in your best interest.
Avoid Long Tie-In Periods
If you do decide to use the same estate agent after carrying out proper research, it’s important to avoid long tie-in agreements wherever possible.
A tie-in period can lock you into working with an agent for a set amount of time, even if you become unhappy with their service.
Without a lengthy tie-in period, you retain flexibility to:
change agents if things aren’t progressing properly
relist your property with a fresh marketing launch
adjust your plans if your onward purchase falls through
An estate agent confident in their service should not need to rely on restrictive contracts to keep your business - they should earn your continued business through results..
Secure Commitments In Writing
If your selling agent says they will help "secure" the property you're interested in, ask them to confirm exactly what that means in writing.
This level of clarity is essential, as it prevents misunderstandings down the road.
For example, ask the agent:
Will they pause viewings on the property?
Will the property be displayed as "Sold Subject to Contract" for a set period to give you time to sell your home
Without clear written agreements, agents can resume marketing the property, leaving you disappointed if it’s sold to someone else. Protect your interests—it’s crucial to avoid misunderstandings later on.
Legally Obliged
Remember, estate agents are legally obligated to submit all offers you make to the seller, even if you choose not to sell through them. They work for the seller, and acting in the seller's best interest takes priority over their interests as a business.
How Sheldon Bosley Knight Can Help
At Sheldon Bosley Knight, we believe sellers should choose an estate agent because they trust the service — not because they feel pressured into it.
Our focus is on:
honest advice
clear communication
proactive marketing
flexible agreements
achieving the best possible outcome for your property sale
We believe homeowners should always feel in control of their decisions and fully informed throughout the process.
Want a valuation from your local Sheldon Bosley Knight expert? Book directly into their calendar at a date and time that suits you.
Closing Thoughts
Buying and selling property can already feel stressful enough without unnecessary pressure from third parties.
The most important thing is choosing the estate agent that gives you confidence, communicates properly, and has a proven strategy to help you move successfully.
Take your time, do your research, and never feel forced into using a service that may not be right for you.
Thank you for reading.
The Sheldon Bosley Knight Team
Disclaimer:
The information in this guide is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, mortgage, tax, or professional advice.
While we aim to keep the information accurate and up to date, Sheldon Bosley Knight Limited makes no guarantees or warranties regarding its accuracy or completeness.
You should always seek advice from a qualified solicitor, financial adviser, mortgage broker, accountant, or other relevant professional before making any decisions based on this information.
Sheldon Bosley Knight Limited accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising from reliance on this guide.