Consumer trust in estate agents has reached 51% in the UK, according to research published by iamproperty. The figure represents an improvement in public perception of the profession, which has historically ranked among the least trusted sectors.
The Ipsos Veracity Index 2025 showed estate agents ranked eighth for untrustworthiness, compared to third least trusted in 2016. The index included professions such as social media influencers, government ministers, politicians, advertising executives, and journalists.
Trust factors and regional variation
iamproperty’s survey, conducted in February 2026, identified three main factors cited by buyers and sellers reporting high trust levels: clear and honest communication, strong local market knowledge, and prioritising clients’ interests over commission. Positive past experiences, particularly among sellers working closely with agents, were also frequently mentioned.
Trust levels varied by region, with South West England and Wales recording the highest rate at 58%, followed by London and the South East at 53%. However, London and the South East also recorded one of the highest distrust levels at 31%, indicating more divided opinions in the region compared to other parts of the UK.
Distrust concerns
Among the 25% of respondents who reported not trusting agents, issues included lack of honesty, providing inaccurate or misleading information, not listening to clients’ needs, pushy or unprofessional behaviour, and potential conflicts of interest such as dual representation or third-party commissions. Buyers were more likely to express distrust, with 29% reporting scepticism.
Jamie Cooke, co-founder of iamproperty, said: “We work with incredible Estate Agents across the UK who are leading the charge and so it’s fantastic that our research showed that more than half of UK consumers now say they trust their Estate Agents. That’s significant progress for a profession long dogged by scepticism.”
The research was conducted as part of iamproperty’s ‘National Estate Agent Day’ marketing campaign. The survey is carried out three times annually.
