Are Estate Agent Fees the Buyer’s Responsibility?
One of the most searched-for questions in the UK property market is simple: “Do buyers pay estate agent fees?” And it’s easy to see why. With so many costs involved in buying a home, it’s helpful to know which bills are yours—and which ones aren’t.
The good news? In most cases, buyers do not pay estate agent fees in the UK. That cost is almost always covered by the seller, because the estate agent is working on their behalf to market the property and get it sold.
So Who Actually Pays the Estate Agent?
Traditionally, the estate agent is instructed by the seller—not the buyer. Their job is to represent the seller’s best interests, which includes promoting the property, arranging viewings, negotiating offers, and progressing the sale through to completion. Because of that, it’s the seller who pays the agent’s commission once the sale completes.
So, as a buyer, you’re not paying the agent’s sales fee. That said, there are a couple of exceptions you should know about.
Additional Costs Buyers Might Face
While you’re not footing the bill for the agent’s percentage fee, there are two common scenarios where buyers might be asked to pay a small amount:
AML (Anti-Money Laundering) checks
Under UK law, estate agents are required to carry out AML checks on both buyers and sellers. These involve verifying your ID and the source of your funds. Many agents now charge buyers a small admin fee to cover the cost—usually under £100. Some charge this when you make an offer, others once your offer has been accepted.
Using a buying agent
If you choose to work with a buying agent (someone who helps you find and negotiate properties), you may be charged a separate fee. This service is more common for high-value or off-market purchases, so most typical buyers won’t need to worry about it.
What Should Buyers Budget for Instead?
Although estate agent fees aren’t usually your problem, there are several other costs you will need to plan for, including:
- Solicitor or conveyancer fees
- Mortgage arrangement and valuation fees
- Survey costs
- Stamp Duty (depending on the property price and whether you’re a first-time buyer)
We’ve got a full breakdown of buyer costs coming soon, but if you’re budgeting for your first home, just know that the agent’s fee won’t be one of your major outgoings.
The Bottom Line: Estate Agent Fees for Buyers
To put it simply: buyers in the UK very rarely pay estate agent fees. The seller covers the commission, and while you may be asked to pay a small AML fee, it’s minimal in comparison.
If you’re ever unsure what you’re being charged or why, ask your agent to explain. At Eastaway Property, we’re always transparent about every step of the process so you can buy with confidence and clarity.
Thinking of Moving in Stamford or Rutland?
If you’re planning a move in the Stamford or Rutland area, make sure you’re first in line when the perfect property hits the market.
Register with us now to receive tailored property alerts straight to your inbox—no spam, just homes that actually match what you’re looking for.
You’ll get:
-
Exclusive access to discreet listings you won’t find anywhere else
-
New properties before they appear on Rightmove, Zoopla or OnTheMarket
-
A local team who actually listens and only sends you the good stuff
It’s fast, free, and could be the difference between missing out and moving in.