Selling a property is a big decision, and you may be unsure whether to work with an online estate agent or high street estate agent.
While online estate agents often offer lower upfront fees, research shows that 73% of properties achieve a better result with a high street agent, including a typical 5% higher sale price – that’s an extra £15,000 on a £300,000 home.
Key Takeaways:
- Online agents are mainly digital platforms with optional add-ons, while high street agents are local, full-service offices offering in-person support.
- Online agents may save money upfront, but high street agents can increase sale value and reduce time on market.
Local knowledge and negotiation skills matter, whether for selling or letting.
What Is an Online Estate Agent?
An online estate agent works through a digital platform only. They typically charge a lower, fixed fee.
That is often because, to get the full service, you need to pay for add-on extras. Otherwise there may be no in-person presence for viewings, negotiations or local expertise. Many online agents require sellers to manage marketing, viewings, and negotiations themselves.
There are also hybrid estate agents which provide optional support from local property experts.
What Is a High Street Estate Agent?
A high street estate agent operates from a local office, as well as online, and offers full-service support for sales, lettings, and property management.
You get all the advantages of having a local, in-person expert, from having key knowledge about the area, to having someone to negotiate offers and work with your conveyancer.
Services include:
- Hosting viewings
- Negotiations
- Paperwork
- Marketing, including social media
- Access to property listing platforms like Rightmove
- Professional photography and brochures
Bottom line
Online agents may suit sellers who want lower fees and have the time for a DIY approach. However, the value of an in-person expert is undeniable – data from The Advisory shows that, on average:
- 73% achieve higher sale prices with high street agents
- High street agents can sell your property for 5% more
So, on a £300,000 home, high street agents could add ~£15,000 extra compared to an online-only listing.
Online Estate Agents vs High Street – How They Compare
| Feature | Online Estate Agent | High Street Estate Agent |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Fixed, low-cost | Percentage of sale |
| Service | Online listing, add-on options for extra fee | Full-service: viewings, negotiations, paperwork, marketing |
| Local Insight | Limited unless hybrid | Deep local knowledge, access to off-market buyers/tenants |
| Results | 73% of properties achieve higher sale prices with high street agents | |
| Marketing | Portals (i.e, Rightmove), virtual tours | Portals (i.e, Rightmove) + signage, brochures, professional photography |
| Convenience | 24/7 online access | Personal, tailored advice; increasingly offering remote services |
The Value of Local Expertise
Property sales and lettings are not just about listing online. Here’s why local expertise makes a difference:
- Pricing: Knowledge of comparable properties, local demand and area amenities ensures realistic, competitive pricing.
- Negotiation: Local agents can leverage insights to get the best offers.
Marketing reach: Local agents know which buyers or tenants to target, including off-market opportunities.
Local Expertise Meets Digital Convenience
Mansons is proudly local, based in Newcastle, but we know that digital tools make it easier for both clients and our agents. That’s why we combine traditional high street strengths with remote services:
- Property sales: Full-service marketing, in-person viewings, and expert negotiations
- Tenant find & management: Online convenience plus local oversight, ensuring quality tenants
- Valuations & investment advice: Tailored insights backed by data and local knowledge
Property investments: Local expertise enables off-market opportunities and better returns
Mansons clients get the reassurance of a local team, the reach of digital tools, and the confidence of expert guidance at every step.
Looking for an Estate Agent in Newcastle?
Choosing an estate agent isn’t just about fees – it’s about experience, local knowledge, and trust.
Our team knows Newcastle inside out: from schools and transport links to market trends and hidden gems. We work with sellers, landlords, and investors to maximise value and minimise stress.
- Selling your property? We handle everything from pricing to completion.
- Looking for tenants? Our tenant find service combines online efficiency with local oversight.
Investing in property? We provide expert guidance to secure high-performing opportunities.
