In short
- An agent saves you time: the listing, viewings, negotiation and documents.
- Selling yourself saves the fee, but all the work and responsibility are yours.
- The main things an agent must deliver are the right price and a flow of buyers.
- If you hire an agent, agree the fee, term and exclusivity in writing.
What an estate agent does
- Suggests a starting price and watches how the market reacts
- Prepares photos and text and publishes the listing on property sites
- Answers calls and runs viewings
- Negotiates the price and the deposit
- Coordinates the notary, the bank and the buyer's mortgage process
Selling yourself or with an agent: compared
| Yourself | With an agent | |
|---|---|---|
| Costs | Only listings and the notary | A fee, usually a percentage of the price |
| Your time | A lot: calls, viewings, negotiation | Little: decisions and signatures |
| Price | Depends on your preparation | Depends on the agent's honesty and experience |
| Reach | Whoever sees your listing | Plus the agent's contacts and buyer base |
| Risks | Mistakes in documents and negotiation | The agent may push for a quick deal |
What private and agency listings show
m²cena sees both private and agency listings. We compare how long they stay on the market and how often the price is cut.
A difference in time on the market doesn't always mean an agent sells faster. Private and agency listings can differ by flat type, neighbourhood and price level. So compare similar flats, and remember that the starting price usually decides the outcome.
If you sell your flat without an agent
You can do everything an agent does yourself if you have the time. The most important steps are the right price, a good listing and a safely handled deal. Start with our article on how to sell a flat.
Leave the contract to a notary or lawyer, and receive the money through escrow. That removes the biggest risks without an agent.
If you choose an agent
- Meet 2–3 agents and ask how each one justifies the price
- Choose the one who backs the price with deals: the highest promise is not always the best
- Ask how many similar flats they have sold in your area
- Agree the fee, term and exclusivity terms in writing
- Check whether the agency belongs to an industry association
Common questions
How much does an estate agent cost the seller?
Usually a percentage of the price or a fixed sum. Agree it in writing.
Does a flat sell for less without an agent?
Not necessarily. The price depends more on the starting price and the quality of the listing than on who sells.
Who drafts the contract if I sell myself?
A notary or lawyer. It costs far less than an agent's fee and protects you from mistakes.
Can I work with several agents?
Yes, if the contracts are not exclusive. The fee then goes to whoever brings the buyer.
Sources
- Latvijas Nekustamo īpašumu darījumu asociācija (LANĪDA) · lanida.lv
- Zemesgrāmatu portāls · Tiesu namu aģentūra
This article is for information only and is not legal, financial or tax advice. It may contain mistakes or be out of date, so check it against official sources or with a specialist before you decide. m²cena accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising from the use of the information in this article.