Both traditional and online estate agents have the same objective: successfully sell your property. The difference is primarily how the service is delivered and how you are charged.
Traditional Estate Agents
A traditional estate agent often operates through a local branch and provides a highly hands-on service. They may conduct viewings, deal with enquiries, negotiate with buyers and manage the sale through to sale agreed. The fee is often based on a percentage of the final selling price.
Online Estate Agents
Online estate agents use technology and centralised systems to provide many core services more efficiently. Depending on the provider, the homeowner may conduct their own viewings while the agency manages marketing, buyer enquiries, qualification, offers and negotiations. This can allow a fixed fee rather than a percentage of the sale price.
Comparing the Cost
On a €600,000 property, a 1.5% professional fee is €9,000 before VAT. Under a fixed-fee model, the charge may be significantly lower. The exact saving depends on the provider and services selected, so compare the full package rather than the headline fee alone.
Who Conducts the Viewings?
With a traditional full-service agency, the agent may conduct viewings. With some online and hybrid models, the homeowner does. Many sellers value sharing detailed knowledge of their home and neighbourhood; others prefer not to interact directly with prospective buyers.
Which Model Is Better?
There is no universal answer. Choose a traditional agent if you want someone to physically manage as much of the process as possible. Consider an online or hybrid model if you are comfortable participating in viewings and want to reduce selling costs.