In a post-pandemic world shaped by remote working, technological acceleration, and shifting lifestyle demanFor decades, estate agents have been the default route for selling a home in the UK. But as the property market evolves in 2026—with faster technology, more informed sellers, and new buyer pathways—many homeowners are asking a game-changing question: Can I sell my house without an estate agent?
The answer is a confident yes.
Avoiding estate agents can save you thousands of pounds in fees, give you more control over the sale process, and potentially speed up the transaction. Whether you’re selling to streamline your finances, relocate, downsize, or simply move on, going solo is no longer a fringe strategy—it’s a rising trend.
This in-depth guide will take you through every angle of selling your property without using an estate agent. From understanding the pros and cons to learning alternative selling methods, dealing with legal paperwork, handling viewings, and closing the deal, you’ll find everything you need to make an informed, confident, and financially smart decision.
Why Homeowners Choose to Sell Without an Estate Agent
Many homeowners are now empowered with tools and information to manage their own property sale. Here’s why more people are going agent-free in 2026:
1. Save on Commission Fees
Estate agents typically charge between 1% and 3% of your property’s final selling price. On a £300,000 home, that could be up to £9,000 or more—just for facilitating the sale. Selling without an agent means more money stays in your pocket.
2. Take Full Control of the Process
When you sell your house yourself, you control the pace, negotiation, viewings, and communication. There’s no middleman diluting your message or rushing decisions for commission.
3. Speed and Flexibility
Traditional sales can get bogged down by estate agent bureaucracy. Selling directly to buyers or using services like SellTo can streamline the process dramatically, with some sales completing in just 7–14 days.
4. More Personal Touch
Some buyers appreciate dealing directly with the owner. You know your home best and can present it in a more compelling, honest, and warm way.
Who Can Sell Without an Estate Agent?
The short answer: anyone. But it works particularly well for:
- Experienced sellers who have bought or sold before.
- Property investors looking to liquidate without fuss.
- Sellers with chain-free properties.
- Inherited property owners.
- Those needing a fast house sale.
- Landlords offloading part of their portfolio.
Common Myths About Selling Without an Estate Agent
❌ Myth 1: It’s Not Legal
Truth: You are legally allowed to sell your property yourself. Estate agents are optional—not mandatory.
❌ Myth 2: I Can’t Find Buyers Without an Agent
Truth: In 2026, online platforms, social media, and services like SellTo make it easy to connect with buyers without needing an estate agent’s database.
❌ Myth 3: It’s Too Complicated
Truth: While there’s admin involved, it’s not rocket science. And you can hire solicitors and surveyors directly for the legal stuff, without paying agent commissions.
Step-by-Step: How to Sell Your House Without an Estate Agent
Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to navigate a DIY home sale successfully:
Step 1: Get a Proper Valuation
You need a realistic asking price. Options include:
- Comparing sold prices of similar homes in your area.
- Using online property valuation tools.
- Getting a RICS valuation from a chartered surveyor for accuracy.
- Requesting a no-obligation offer from a direct house-buying company like SellTo (especially if you want speed).
Tip: Don’t overprice to “test the market.” It could put off serious buyers.
Step 2: Prepare Your Property for Sale
Presentation is everything—even without an agent.
- Declutter every room.
- Deep clean carpets, floors, kitchens, and bathrooms.
- Boost kerb appeal by mowing lawns and painting the front door.
- Consider minor repairs or staging to improve first impressions.
Photos matter. If you’re selling via property websites, high-quality images are essential.
Step 3: Create a Listing or Market the Property
Even without an estate agent, you can still market your home effectively:
Direct Selling Options:
- Social media: Facebook Marketplace, Instagram, and local property groups.
- Your own network: Let friends, family, and neighbours know.
- For sale boards: A physical sign still works wonders in residential areas.
- Property portals: Some online platforms let homeowners list directly.
- SellTo: For a private, direct purchase without public marketing.
Step 4: Handle Enquiries and Arrange Viewings
When someone shows interest, respond promptly. Be honest, friendly, and informative.
For viewings:
- Prepare your home as if for a guest.
- Allow buyers time to explore without hovering.
- Highlight unique features, renovations, and local amenities.
- Be ready to answer questions about:
- Running costs (council tax, utilities)
- Schools and transport links
- Neighbourhood reputation
Step 5: Negotiate and Accept an Offer
Without an estate agent, you’ll negotiate directly with buyers. Remember:
- Don’t accept a first offer too quickly unless it’s strong.
- Be clear about your minimum acceptable price.
- If there’s a bidding war, be fair but firm.
- Once you accept an offer, move to the legal phase.
Step 6: Hire a Solicitor or Conveyancer
Even without an agent, legal work is essential. Your solicitor will:
- Draft the contract
- Deal with buyer’s solicitor
- Conduct title and property searches
- Manage the exchange and completion process
Choose a solicitor with property sale experience, and ask for a fixed quote upfront.
Step 7: Complete the Sale
After all legal checks, both sides agree on a completion date. On the day:
- You vacate the property.
- Buyer transfers funds to your solicitor.
- Keys are handed over once funds are cleared.
Congratulations! You’ve sold your house without an estate agent.
Pros and Cons of Selling Without an Estate Agent
✅ Pros:
- Save thousands in fees
- Complete flexibility
- Direct communication
- More control over offers and price
❌ Cons:
- You handle all viewings and admin
- Requires confidence in negotiation
- Legal process still needs managing
- Time-consuming if you have no buyer lined up
Fast Alternatives: Sell Your House Without an Estate Agent, Quickly
Some homeowners don’t want to market the property at all. That’s where direct cash buyers like SellTo come in.
With SellTo, you can:
- Avoid agents entirely
- Get a no-obligation offer in 24 hours
- Complete in as little as 7 days
- Sell even tenanted or inherited homes
- Eliminate chains, delays, and fees
This is ideal if you:
- Are facing repossession or financial pressure
- Need to relocate quickly
- Are dealing with a probate property
- Want to unlock equity fast
Documents You’ll Need to Sell Without an Agent
No agent doesn’t mean no paperwork. Be prepared with:
- Proof of identity (passport or driving licence)
- Property title deeds
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) – required by law
- Fittings and contents form (TA10)
- Property information form (TA6)
- Leasehold info (if applicable)
A solicitor will help compile and submit these.
When NOT to Sell Without an Estate Agent
While agent-free sales are ideal for many, they might not be right for:
- Very high-value homes requiring niche buyers
- Overseas owners who can’t attend viewings
- Those uncomfortable handling negotiations or paperwork
In such cases, it may be worth considering hybrid solutions—or letting SellTo take care of it all.
SellTo vs Estate Agents: Side-by-Side
| Feature | Estate Agent | SellTo |
|---|---|---|
| Commission | 1–3% of sale price | £0 |
| Time to Sale | 8–14 weeks on average | As fast as 7 days |
| Guaranteed Sale | ❌ | ✅ |
| Viewings Required | ✅ | ❌ |
| Suitable for Any Property | ✅ (limited by buyer interest) | ✅ (any condition, location, tenancy) |
| Chain-Free | Rare | Always |
Final Thoughts: Is Selling Without an Estate Agent Right for You?
Selling your house without an estate agent isn’t just possible—it can be easier, cheaper, and faster than the traditional route.
If you’re confident in your property’s appeal, willing to handle a few viewings, and have a good solicitor on board, you could save thousands and be in control from start to finish.
But if time is critical, or if you simply want a frictionless, stress-free sale, companies like SellTo offer a powerful, modern alternative that cuts out the middleman entirely.
In 2026, you don’t have to settle for outdated methods or wait months to sell your home. The market has changed—and with the right information, you can take full advantage.
