With rising living costs and more online tools available than ever, many homeowners are asking whether they really need an estate agent to sell their property. The idea of handling the sale yourself can sound appealing, particularly if you are focused on reducing fees and staying in control.
But as the UK property market continues to adjust heading into 2026, selling a home has become more complex than simply finding a buyer. Before deciding to sell privately, it is worth taking a closer look at how today’s market conditions and upcoming changes could affect your sale.
Related: How to Sell Your Home
Why is selling privately gaining attention
There is no doubt that online platforms have made property marketing more accessible. Homeowners can list their property, upload photos and communicate directly with potential buyers. In a slower market, the temptation to cut costs and manage the process yourself can feel sensible.
However, ease of access does not always equal ease of sale. Buyers today are more informed, more cautious and far more willing to negotiate than they were in previous years.
A more balanced market changes the challenge
The UK housing market moving into 2026 is defined by balance rather than urgency. Mortgage conditions have improved following measures outlined in the 2025 Budget, but buyers are still taking their time and comparing options carefully.
This means sellers have less room for error. Accurate pricing, strong presentation and clear negotiation are critical. Properties that miss the mark in their first few weeks often stay on the market longer, which can ultimately reduce achieved sale prices.
Related: Budget 2025: What landlords and homeowners need to know – Lovelle’s market update
Pricing without professional guidance
Setting the right asking price is one of the most important decisions a seller makes. Without local expertise, many private sellers rely on online estimates or personal expectations.
The risk is simple. Price is too high, and buyers look elsewhere. Price too low and you may lose value that could have been secured with the right strategy. In a market with modest price growth, these mistakes are harder to recover from.
At Lovelle, we regularly see privately marketed homes return to the market later with adjusted pricing, often after losing early momentum.
Legal and regulatory pressure is increasing
Selling a property now involves more than agreeing on a price. Compliance requirements around energy performance, property disclosures and transaction transparency are becoming more prominent, with greater oversight expected as housing reforms continue.
Local councils are playing a growing role in enforcement and standards, making accuracy and preparation increasingly important. Missing information or delays at this stage can slow down or even derail a sale.
Negotiation is where many private sales struggle
Negotiating directly with buyers can be challenging, particularly when surveys raise concerns or chains become complicated. Buyers are often more confident pushing for reductions when there is no professional intermediary involved.
An experienced estate agent provides a buffer, managing expectations and keeping discussions constructive. In many cases, skilled negotiation can protect more value, even after fees, than a private sale achieves.
When selling without an agent may make sense
There are situations where selling privately can work. This might include selling to a family member, a neighbour or a known buyer, or in areas with extremely high demand and limited supply.
Even in these cases, many sellers still benefit from professional advice on pricing, paperwork and progression to avoid unnecessary risk.
Related: Home Selling Checklist: Everything You Need to Do Before Listing
Making the right choice for your home
Selling without an agent is not inherently wrong, but it is rarely as simple as it first appears. In today’s market, the cost of mistakes can outweigh the savings made on fees.
At Lovelle, we help homeowners understand their local market, position their property correctly and navigate the sales process with confidence. Our role is not just to market your home, but to protect your outcome.
If you are considering selling and weighing up your options, your local Lovelle branch can offer honest, practical advice to help you decide the best route forward for 2026 and beyond.
