Online vs High Street Estate Agents: Which Is Better
This guide will explain everything you need to know about the difference between online estate agents and high street estate agents.
Wondering if an online estate agent or a high street agent is the better choice for your move? You’re not alone, but the answer depends on what matters most to you. In this guide, we’ll explain how they work, their pros and cons, and which one might suit your move best.
Whether you’re looking to save money, stay hands-on, or just want your home sold fast, understanding both options will help you make a confident choice.
What is an online estate agent?
Online estate agents operate primarily through digital platforms. They typically offer a fixed-fee structure, online tools to manage your sale, and flexible support. Many allow you to handle viewings and communication yourself, though some offer optional upgrades.
Online agents are often cheaper and more flexible, and work particularly well for sellers comfortable with a DIY-style process. To get started, you can book your free house valuation online in minutes.
What is a high street estate agent?
High street estate agents are based in physical branches on your local high street and typically offer a fully managed, in-person service. This often includes hosting viewings and supporting you through to completion.
Their fees are usually based on a percentage of your property’s final sale price, which can make them more expensive than online or hybrid options.
They’re a popular choice for sellers who want face-to-face contact, or who prefer to leave the day-to-day process in someone else’s hands. You can understand what estate agents do in more detail in our guide.
What are the benefits of using an online estate agent vs a high street estate agent?
Lower, fixed fees
Online estate agents often charge a flat fee rather than a commission based on the final sale price. This can save you thousands, especially if you’re confident about handling viewings and negotiation yourself.
Greater flexibility
Most online agents let you manage your sale at your own pace. You can book viewings, respond to offers, and check progress at any time, often through an app or portal.
Nationwide reach with local insight
Reputable online agents, like Purplebricks, combine national marketing power with experienced local agents. That means your listing gets broad exposure, without sacrificing local expertise.
What is a hybrid agent?
Hybrid estate agents offer the best of both worlds: online tools plus real local agents who offer in-person support. Purplebricks is a hybrid estate agent, combining flexibility and cost savings with expert local service.
You get 24/7 access to your listing and buyer activity, plus a dedicated local estate agent to handle valuations, listings, and negotiations.
How trustworthy are online estate agents?
A common concern is whether online agents are as reliable as traditional ones. The answer is: it depends on the agent. Reputable online agents with transparent pricing, qualified local experts and proper regulatory memberships (like The Property Ombudsman or PRS) are just as trustworthy.
Check reviews, understand what’s included in the fee, and make sure you’re clear on whether services like viewings or negotiations are optional extras.
How do home valuations work with online estate agents?
Online estate agents often offer instant online estimates and the ability to book your free house valuation with a local expert. At Purplebricks, our valuations are carried out by experienced agents who know your area - ensuring a realistic, market-based price that attracts buyers and helps your home sell faster.
The bottom line
Both high street and online estate agents have their strengths. If you prefer a traditional, in-person approach and don’t mind paying more for it, a high street agent might be right for you. If you’re looking for flexibility, control, and savings, a reputable online or hybrid agent can offer excellent value.
Want to explore your options? Learn more about private property sales, or sell your house today with Purplebricks.
Got questions? Contact Purplebricks for friendly advice and expert support.