Unravelling Selling Costs and Fees: A Clear Guide for UK Homeowners
Selling your home is a major milestone. Understanding the costs involved helps you plan with confidence and avoid unexpected surprises. At Fisher and Partners, we believe in clarity. This guide explains the key expenses so you can take your next step with assurance.
Estate Agent Fees: Your Core Selling Cost
For most sellers, the largest expense is the estate agent fee. This is usually a percentage of your final sale price, though some agents offer a fixed fee.
What to consider:
Percentage or fixed fee
A percentage-based fee often aligns your agent’s motivation with your own. When we aim for the highest achievable sale price, everyone benefits.
What is included
Always be clear about what the fee covers. At Fisher and Partners, we include professional photography, floor plans, presentation advice and beautifully written property listings as standard. Your home deserves to be showcased at its absolute best.
VAT
Ask whether VAT is included. This can add 20 percent to the cost, so transparency matters.
With Fisher and Partners you have a dedicated Senior Managing Partner from start to finish. This ensures consistent communication and complete clarity surrounding every fee, with no hidden extras.
Legal Fees: Conveyancing Explained
Conveyancing is the legal transfer of ownership from seller to buyer. You will need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to manage the process. Their fees may vary depending on the value of the property and the complexity of the transaction.
These fees typically cover tasks such as drafting contracts, responding to buyer enquiries, managing Land Registry documentation and handling the transfer of funds. Some solicitors charge a fixed fee, others use hourly rates or percentage-based pricing. Ask for a full breakdown that includes any disbursements such as searches and third-party administration.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
To market your property, you must have a valid Energy Performance Certificate. The EPC provides an energy efficiency rating and recommendations for improvement. If you do not already have one, you will need an accredited assessor to produce it. Costs are usually modest and range between £60 and £120.
Removal Costs
Moving day comes with its own practical considerations. The cost of removals will depend on the volume of belongings, distance and whether you choose a packing service. We recommend obtaining quotes from reputable companies well in advance so that the final weeks of your sale are stress-free.
Mortgage Exit Fees
If you still have a mortgage, you may incur early repayment charges or exit fees when you redeem the loan. Review your mortgage agreement or speak to your lender to understand what applies to you. Your Senior Managing Partner can help you factor these costs into your planning.
Capital Gains Tax (CGT)
If you are selling your main residence, you will usually not pay Capital Gains Tax because it benefits from Private Residence Relief. CGT may apply to second homes, buy-to-let properties or properties used for business purposes. Every situation is unique. Seek guidance from a tax advisor or accountant if you believe CGT may be relevant.
Why Fisher and Partners
Selling a home is more than a transaction. It is a life chapter. Our bespoke, service-led approach is designed to make the journey seamless. We work with a limited number of clients to ensure genuine focus and attention. With deep local knowledge and carefully curated marketing, your property is presented with precision and care.
From valuation to completion, your dedicated Senior Managing Partner stands beside you. Our relationships are built on trust, professionalism and a commitment to excellence, and many of our clients come through referrals.
If you are considering selling your home, we are here to help. Contact Fisher and Partners for a confidential, no-obligation conversation. We look forward to supporting you throughout your property journey.