Months of silence, a handful of viewings, and an agent who only calls to suggest cutting the price. It's frustrating, and it's common. You can change estate agent, but read your contract first, because tie-in periods, notice and fee clauses can leave you paying two agents for one sale.
What could your home earn?
Free and instant. Nobody rings you unless you ask them to.
Key takeaways
- Change agent if viewings, service and marketing are poor, not just because of price.
- Most tie-in periods run for 4 or 12 weeks, often with notice on top.
- Watch for "ready, willing and able purchaser" clauses.
- You may still owe your old agent if a buyer they introduced goes on to buy.
- Relaunch with new photos and a fresh description.
Contents
When should you change estate agent?
- Few or no viewings after several weeks, despite a realistic price.
- Poor photos or a weak listing that the agent won't improve.
- Slow replies and no feedback after viewings.
- No clear plan for getting your home sold.
Before switching, check whether the real problem is the price. A new agent can't sell an overpriced home any faster.
How long are estate agent tie-in periods?
Most sole agency contracts tie you in for a minimum period. The HomeOwners Alliance says that 4 weeks or 12 weeks are the most popular terms, and there can also be a notice period on top.
What is a "ready, willing and able purchaser" clause?
A clause that can make you pay the agent even if the sale doesn't go ahead. The HomeOwners Alliance explains it means you have to pay the agent for finding a buyer, even if you decide not to sell. By law, agents must explain what terms like this mean. The Estate Agents (Provision of Information) Regulations 1991 require agents to explain the intention and effect of terms such as “sole selling rights”, “sole agency” and “ready, willing and able purchaser”.
Will you owe your old agent a fee?
You might. Many contracts include continuing liability, meaning you could owe your old agent if a buyer they introduced later buys through your new agent. The HomeOwners Alliance suggests asking your old agent for a list of the buyers they introduced, so you know where you stand.
How do you change estate agent?
- Read your contract for the tie-in period, notice period and fee clauses.
- Give written notice, in line with the contract.
- Ask for a list of the buyers the old agent introduced.
- Choose a new agent on results, not the highest valuation.
- Relaunch properly, with new photos and a fresh description.
Should you use more than one agent?
A multiple agency agreement lets several agents market your home, with the fee going to the one who sells it. It can reach more buyers, but usually costs more.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change estate agent while my house is on the market?
Yes, once your tie-in period and notice period are over.
How long is an estate agent tie-in period?
Usually 4 or 12 weeks, sometimes with a notice period on top.
Will I pay two estate agent fees?
You could, if a buyer introduced by your old agent buys through your new one. Check your contract.
What does "ready, willing and able purchaser" mean?
You may have to pay the agent for finding a buyer, even if you decide not to sell.
What should I look for in a new agent?
Results for homes like yours, honest pricing, and a clear plan to relaunch your home.
Related guides
Sources
This is general information, not legal, financial, tax or insurance advice. Market figures are averages as of the date shown above and change every month. Speak to a qualified professional before you act on anything here.