Property particulars

The estate agent (or agents) you have chosen will visit your home to take details such as the number and size of rooms. This helps the agent prepare a description of the property (known as property particulars) before advertising it.

There are strict rules covering the way property can be described. It is against the law for an estate agent to make false or misleading statements in the property particulars.

Other services

Estate agents also provide services to buyers. They may organise surveys and valuations or arrange mortgages or life insurance. This is common when an estate agency is part of, or linked to, a financial institution such as a bank or a building society.

If an estate agent intends to offer services to the buyer and will receive a commission or an introduction fee, the agent must give you written details. If the buyer decides to take up the offer, you must also be told in writing. This applies even if the agent offers services through someone else.