Why Sellers Deserve Better Than Commission-Driven Advice
This week’s BBC Panorama programme shed light on a troubling issue within parts of the estate agency sector: sellers being short-changed by agents putting their financial interests ahead of the very clients they are paid to represent.
The investigation revealed a growing trend among some of the UK’s largest corporate estate agencies, where buyers are being favoured not because they are the strongest candidate, but because they have agreed to use the agent’s in-house services. In some cases, stronger offers were being disregarded entirely if the buyer declined to use the agency’s mortgage broker.
This is not just a conflict of interest; it is a complete betrayal of trust.
Estate agents are meant to act in their clients’ best interests. When that responsibility is replaced by a focus on internal sales targets and commission, the very foundations of professional representation are compromised. And when that happens, scrupulous agents like us are left to contend with the fallout of an industry already battling against a questionable reputation.
Sellers deserve better, and our values of integrity, determination, and empathy stand in stark contrast to the failures highlighted in the programme.
Integrity Means Transparent Advice, Not Hidden Agendas
A lack of transparency, especially when driven by ulterior motives, leads to clouded, self-serving advice. This is exactly why integrity is non-negotiable for us.
Clear, honest communication is the foundation of any trusted relationship. Presenting all offers fairly, with full transparency, is not just good practice; it is a legal obligation. It is the absolute minimum that sellers and buyers should expect.
Our clients can rely on us to provide information that is accurate, objective, and always in their best interest. We have nothing to hide and no incentive to mislead.
Determination Means Fighting for the Best Result, Not the Easiest One
The investigation exposed how some agents opted for offers that suited their internal business model, rather than the seller’s objectives. This kind of shortcut has no place in responsible agency.
We are relentlessly determined to secure the best outcome for every client. That means we never settle for the path of least resistance. We negotiate with energy and focus, and remain fully committed until our clients’ goals are achieved. A seller’s success is our success, and nothing less will do.
Empathy Ensures Clients Are Heard, Understood and Properly Represented
Perhaps most disappointing was the clear evidence that sellers’ motivations were often overlooked in favour of corporate priorities.
That is exactly what empathy prevents.
We understand that selling a property is rarely just a transaction. It is often tied to major life changes and emotional decisions. That is why we listen. We ask questions. And we shape our approach around what really matters to each client. When people feel heard and understood, the path forward becomes clearer and more confident. For them, and for us.
Time to Raise the Standard
The findings from Panorama must not be dismissed. They are a stark reminder that not all estate agents operate with the same level of integrity or commitment. When advice is driven solely by internal financial incentives, it is the sellers who lose out, and every agent should be holding themselves to a higher standard.
At DOMVS, being independent means we answer only to our clients. We are not beholden to shareholders or sales quotas. We put people first. Always.
Because when you choose someone to represent your home, you deserve more than a service.
You deserve an advocate.
Click here for a free valuation of your property. There’s no obligation to use our services, especially our third-party, reputable mortgage partners.
