Across the UK, more people are taking property sales into their own hands. Whether they’re first-time sellers, downsizers, or small-scale developers, the trend is clear: sellers want more flexibility, better value, and greater control over how their homes are brought to market.
While traditional estate agents still play an important role, a growing number of homeowners and developers are choosing a more self-directed approach. Enter platforms like Off Agent, which allow anyone to list and sell property without long-term contracts or high commission fees.
🏡 For sellers, it’s about confidence and control
Rachel, a homeowner in Shrewsbury, listed her three-bedroom semi-detached home on Off Agent after comparing her options.
“I wasn’t against using an agent,” she says, “but I felt like I’d end up paying thousands for things I could probably manage myself. I just wanted to test the waters without locking into anything.”
With free listings, optional upgrades, and the ability to reach buyers through platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla, Off Agent gave her the tools to manage the sale from start to finish.
“I listed, responded to enquiries myself, and arranged my own viewings. I ended up saving over £4,000 — and I still had professional photos and Rightmove exposure.”
Stories like Rachel’s reflect a broader shift: today’s sellers want options. They want to choose the level of service they need, not be tied to a one-size-fits-all model.
🧱 For small developers, it’s about speed and margins
It’s not just homeowners making the switch. Small developers — those building or refurbishing one to ten units per year — are also embracing this flexible model.
Ben, who develops small sites in the Midlands, explains: “I know my product, I know my market, and I’ve got my own team for marketing and viewings. What I need is exposure — particularly on Rightmove and Zoopla — without the overhead.”
Using Off Agent, Ben lists finished homes and off-plan units with professional polish, reaching buyers directly while maintaining control over pricing, scheduling, and negotiations.
“It saves me time, it saves me money, and it looks just as professional as anything an agent might do.”
For developers juggling multiple roles, this level of control and cost-efficiency is hard to beat.
🔄 Not anti-agent — just pro-choice
It’s important to say: many sellers and developers still prefer to work with agents, especially for high-value or complex sales. Off Agent doesn’t aim to replace them entirely — it simply opens up a new option for those who want to manage their sale independently or supplement their own marketing.
Some users even use both: they list on Off Agent to test the market while keeping the door open to agent support if needed later on.
As Off Agent’s founder puts it: “Our goal isn’t to replace agents — it’s to rebalance the power. Sellers should have more control, more transparency, and the tools to succeed whether they go it alone or not.”
📈 What’s driving this movement?
- The rise of digital tools and remote communication
- Increasing awareness of commission costs
- A desire for faster decisions, fewer barriers, and more autonomy
- Better access to professional-quality listing tools at a fraction of the cost
With listings starting from free and premium services like Rightmove access from £99, Off Agent makes the process approachable for anyone — without compromise.
🔗 The future of selling?
As confidence in self-selling grows and platforms like Off Agent mature, we may see a more blended model emerge — one where sellers and developers pick the path that suits them best, with or without an agent.
And at the heart of it? A belief that selling your home — or your project — doesn’t have to mean giving up control.
