💼 What Does an Estate Agent Actually Do for Their Fee?
In a world of online-only agents, budget fees, and DIY selling platforms, it’s fair to ask:
What does a traditional estate agent actually do – and is it worth the money?
At Collyers, we believe in being transparent about what you’re paying for – and why it matters. Here’s a breakdown of what a good agent really does behind the scenes (and on the frontlines) to earn their fee.
🏡 1. Accurate, Evidence-Based Valuation
A proper valuation is not just about guessing a number or copying a similar listing. It involves:
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Local market expertise
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Recent comparable sales
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Knowledge of buyer demand
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Unique features of your property
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Strategic pricing to maximise interest
Overpricing can leave you stuck. Underpricing can cost you thousands. Getting it right matters.
📸 2. Professional Marketing That Gets Results
A great estate agent knows how to make your home stand out – not just appear.
That includes:
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Professional photography and floorplans
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Compelling listing copy
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Portal advertising (Rightmove, Zoopla, etc.)
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Social media campaigns
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Targeted marketing to active buyers
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Eye-catching for-sale boards
Your home deserves more than a grainy photo and generic listing. This is your biggest asset – it should be treated as such.
📞 3. Proactive Buyer Matching
At Collyers, we don’t wait for the phone to ring.
We pick it up.
That means:
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Calling through our database of pre-qualified buyers
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Matching properties to search criteria
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Suggesting off-market or upcoming homes
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Organising viewings quickly and efficiently
Many sales happen before someone spots your home on Rightmove – because the agent already had someone in mind.
🗝 4. Viewings, Feedback & Negotiations
A good agent handles:
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All viewing arrangements
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Buyer screening
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Honest, constructive feedback
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Skilled negotiation to secure the best possible price
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Advising you on which offers are strongest (it’s not always just the highest)
Negotiation alone can be worth thousands. An experienced agent knows how to get buyers competing – and when to hold firm.
📝 5. Progression: Getting You to Completion
This is the part most people don’t realise they need help with – but it’s often where the value is highest.
We:
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Liaise with solicitors
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Monitor progress and chase delays
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Solve issues before they derail the sale
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Keep you updated every step of the way
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Push the transaction over the line
Online agents often stop once a sale is agreed. But with chain delays, legal paperwork and mortgage processes, that’s when a good agent is just getting started.
💬 So, Is It Worth It?
With a full-service estate agent, you’re not just paying for photos and a listing – you’re investing in:
✅ Expert valuation
✅ Professional marketing
✅ Buyer access and matching
✅ Skilled negotiation
✅ Chain management and completion support
That’s how we help you sell quicker, for more, and with less stress.
If your current agent isn’t offering all of the above… you’re paying too much, no matter how low the fee.
📍 Thinking of Selling?
Before you commit to an agent, let’s talk. We offer:
👉 Free, no-obligation property valuations
👉 Transparent advice with no hard sell
👉 Award-winning service across North Devon
📞 Book Your Free Valuation Today
🏡 See How We Sell Homes
Collyers Estate Agents – Trusted Locals. Award-Winning Service. Real Results.
