How to Find the Best Estate Agents Near Me

We obsess over property in this country, from TV shows to headline news, every time prices marginally go up or down. We buy houses to live in, for investments and as second properties. There’s no denying we are a nation with a keen interest in bricks and mortar.

So if you’re selling or letting you’ll likely be Googling ‘Best estate agents near me’. Well, you’re in the right place.

Estate agents are important in buying, selling, and renting homes. However, they are not very trusted in the UK. A 2025 Ipsos Veracity Index survey revealed that only 32% of people felt they could trust an estate agent to tell the truth. Marking a 5% decrease from the previous year.

Estate agents remain among the least trusted professions. In the 2025 index, some groups had even lower public trust:

• Social media influencers had 6% trust.
• Politicians generally had 9% trust.
• Government Ministers had 14%
• Advertising executives had 16%
• Journalists had 26%
• Local councillors had 30%
• Business leaders had 31%

But why the lack of trust? 

Estate agent regulation

Agents are regulated under the Estate Agents Act 1979, which outlines the duties owed to buyer and seller clients. Operators do not need a license or qualification. This means anyone can start a sales or letting agency.

That’s not to say all agents operate in bad faith. Indeed, many of them opt to be regulated over and above what is legally required, are highly experienced and provide sellers and renters with a five-star service. You just need to know where to find them.

That’s the purpose of this guide, which has everything you need to know about finding the best agent in your area. 

Who regulates estate agents?

There are no mandatory regulations in the UK for anyone thinking of starting an estate agency. You don’t need to pass tests, prove your property chops or demonstrate relevant experience. All you need is the money to set yourself up.  

Luckily, this isn’t how estate agents usually work. Most of them do their job because they have experience and love what they do. Even better, there is a professional body for estate and letting agents, Propertymark, who regulate their members, even though it’s not required by UK law.

What is Propertymark?

Propertymark is a leading membership body that holds property agents accountable and sets standards across the industry. Launched in 2017, Propertymark combines five different associations – ARLA, NAEA, NAVA, ICBA and APIP – into one entity. It covers every major aspect of property, from buying and selling to renting and letting. 

Agents in Propertymark receive training to lead in their field. Their agencies follow rules, are open, and are regulated. In a world full of options, choosing agents who are part of Propertymark can help you find a good estate agent or letting agent. This is especially useful if you are renting. 

How does Propertymark regulate agents?

Propertymark has a code of conduct for its members. This code includes rules and disciplinary actions for those who do not follow them. Membership for agents is conditional on meeting Propertymark’s conduct and rules. 

It offers agents guidance, advice and research so agents can perform their job to the highest level.

They can also keep improving their skills through a wide range of workshops, conferences, and events by Propertymark. 

Why is it important to have regulation? 

Essentially it boils down to repercussions. Unregulated estate and letting agents do not have to follow certain standards. This can sometimes lead to poor practices.

However, regulation means all agents must follow guidelines set by the governing body, to professionalise their practice.

Propertymark’s conduct and membership rules lead to higher professional standards. If members do not meet them they are investigated. You can also make a complaint if you feel necessary.

If you are a buyer, seller, renter, or landlord, you have more rights with a Propertymark agent. This is due to the rules they follow. 

How to choose an estate agent

When looking for an agent, there are several factors worth considering before making a decision. Ideally, the instructed agent (whether sales or lettings) should be:

• Experienced – what qualifications do they have, and how long have they worked in the industry?
• Enthusiastic – they’re selling or letting your home and should show enthusiasm to finding the right buyer or renter
• Helpful – ask the agent how they will market the property. They should explain the processes clearly. Always encourage questions and be open about agent fees.
• Approachable – for many people, buying and selling a property is an entirely new concept. Therefore, the agent should be friendly and approachable, ready to guide where needed
• Knowledgeable – able to show their understanding of the local area and nearby postcodes. This includes sold prices, popular property types, and average sale times for houses.
• Professional – be a member of a professional body, like Propertymark.

Can you trust all estate agents?

Unfortunately not. But looking for a Propertymark member agent is definitely the best place to find one that you can.

Each member agent is regulated, qualified and adheres to high standards. This makes them a safer bet than estate agents that aren’t part of a professional setup.  

Finding the best estate agent near me

Selecting the right agent is crucial to your property selling or letting experience.

Propertymark supports higher standards than current laws require. They work hard to improve enforcement in the property sector. They hold member agents accountable to protect you and your money.

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Last Updated: December 18th, 2025