Can you change estate agents?
Yes, you can change estate agents in the UK. You're not locked in forever, but it’s important to check the terms of your contract. There may be tie-in periods, notice clauses or fees to consider. If you’re not happy with the results or communication from your current agent, switching could be a smart move.
This article explains when and how to switch estate agents in the UK. It also highlights the risks to watch for and gives a ready-to-use template to notify your current agent.
Key points include:
- Yes, you can switch agents, even mid-sale.
- Review your contract for tie-in, notice, and commission clauses.
- Provide written notice and request a list of buyers they’ve introduced.
- Watch for double commission risks.
- You can work with multiple agents, but it depends on your agreement.
- Some sellers avoid agents entirely using alternatives like Habello.
When should you consider changing estate agents?
If your property has been on the market without progress, it may be time to rethink your agent. Common reasons homeowners switch include:
- No viewings or offers after several weeks.
- Poor communication or unreturned calls.
- Low-quality marketing or badly written listings.
- Overvaluation that led to price drops.
- Loss of trust or professionalism.
- General lack of results or urgency.
If any of these sound familiar, it’s worth reviewing your contract and exploring alternatives.
What to check in your estate agent contract before switching
Before making a change, read through your agreement carefully. Key clauses to look out for:
Tie-in period
The tie-in period, sometimes called a lock-in period, is the minimum length of time you're committed to using your estate agent. It usually ranges from 4 to 16 weeks.
During this period, you may not be allowed to switch agents or remove your property from the market without paying a penalty. If you're still within this window, you’ll likely need to wait until it ends before making a change (unless you're prepared to cover early termination fees). Always check the exact dates so you know when you're free to leave.
Notice period
Even after the tie-in period ends, most contracts require a written notice period before the agreement officially terminates. This is typically between 1 and 4 weeks.
You’ll need to give notice in writing (usually by email or letter), and it’s a good idea to ask for written confirmation from the agent that they’ve received it and acknowledge the end date. Failing to give proper notice could mean your contract automatically renews or delays your switch.
Termination fees
Some estate agents include early termination fees in their contracts, especially if you're on a fixed-fee agreement where you’ve paid upfront for marketing or listing services. These fees can apply whether or not your home has sold.
If you’re paying as part of a package, double-check whether you’re entitled to a refund or if cancelling early means forfeiting that payment. In some cases, agents will waive fees, but it’s not guaranteed. Make sure you understand what, if anything, you’ll owe before pulling out.
Exclusivity or sole agency clauses
If you signed a sole agency or exclusive rights agreement, you may not be allowed to instruct another agent during the contract period. Breaching this clause could result in paying commission to both agents (even if only one finds a buyer).
These clauses are meant to protect the original agent from being bypassed, but they can also restrict your flexibility. If you're considering bringing on a second agent or switching, you need to be sure your current contract allows it.
Commission liability
This is one of the most common pitfalls when switching agents. Even if you’ve moved on, your previous agent may still be entitled to a commission if they introduced the buyer at any stage.
This is why it’s essential to ask for a list of everyone your current agent has shown the property to. Share this list with your new agent and keep it on file. Without it, you risk a situation where both agents claim commission on the same sale, leaving you stuck in the middle.
Other conditions
Some contracts include lesser-known clauses that can still catch you off guard. For example, your agent might require you to use their recommended solicitor or mortgage adviser. Others may set conditions around what qualifies a buyer — such as financial vetting — which can affect how flexible you are in choosing who to sell to. These terms might seem minor, but they can influence your experience and even delay your sale if you're not aware of them.
Will I have to pay double commission?
This is one of the most important things to avoid. You could end up paying two agents if:
- Your previous agent introduced a buyer.
- That buyer later purchases the property.
- You didn’t check or document who was introduced.
To avoid this:
- Ask your agent for a list of all parties they’ve introduced to your home.
- Share that list with any new agent.
Get everything in writing so there's no confusion over commission entitlement.
If you’re unsure, get legal advice before committing to another contract.
Save time and hassle by selling your home with us
Get a guaranteed cash offer on any property in England and Wales. All you need to do to get started is enter your address below.
How to switch estate agents
Here’s how to make the change in a clean and professional way:
- Check your contract: Confirm the tie-in period, notice requirements and any potential fees.
- Decide why you’re switching: Clarify your reasons and consider whether they can be resolved with your current agent.
- Send formal notice: Provide written notice to your agent, including your property address and proposed end date.
- Request a list of introduced buyers: This helps you and your new agent avoid double commission issues.
- Choose a new agent: Research thoroughly and look for someone with better service, local knowledge and a stronger sales track record.
- Coordinate the transition: Ensure the old agent removes listings and signage promptly. Your new agent can then relist the property and take over marketing.
How should I tell my estate agent I want to switch?
The simplest way is to send a short, professional email to your main contact or branch manager. Be clear, polite, and request written confirmation that the contract is ending.
Choosing your next estate agent
When selecting a new agent, look for:
- Local success: Do they regularly sell homes in your area?
- Marketing quality: Review photos, listing descriptions and presentation
- Communication: Are they responsive and proactive from day one?
- Fee transparency: Make sure there are no hidden costs
- Buyer reach: Ask if they have active buyers looking for similar properties
Meet a few different agents and compare strategies before committing.
Pros and cons of switching estate agents
Here’s a quick overview:
What happens to your listing and signage?
Once you’ve given notice:
- The old agent should take down your online listing from platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla.
- Their For Sale board should be removed (you can request this immediately after the contract ends).
- Your new agent will relist the property and install their own signage if needed.
Be sure to check that your home isn’t listed by both agents at the same time, unless you’re on a multi-agency agreement.
Can you have more than one estate agent?
Yes, but it depends on your current contract.
- Sole agency: One agent markets the property.
- Joint agency: Two agents market it together and share the commission.
- Multi-agency: Several agents can market the property, but only the successful one earns the fee.
Multi-agency offers more exposure but can create confusion or higher costs. If you go this route, be clear on who is doing what and how fees are handled.
Avoid estate agents altogether
If you’ve had a disappointing experience or just want to sell without delays, you don’t have to go through another estate agent.
At Habello, we offer an alternative that’s simple, fast, and completely agent-free:
- No need for listings, photos, or viewings.
- Get a no obligation cash offer.
- Complete in as little as 7 days after accepting our offer.
- No agent fees, no open chains, no uncertainty.
- We take care of the paperwork and legal support.
Request a no-obligation offer below.
Property owners are choosing Habello for a faster, easier and less stressful way to sell
Sell your home quickly for cash by accepting an offer just below market value. See how we compare to your other options by using the calculator below.
