Kieran McCartney, an estate agent who appeared on The Apprentice, has added his voice to growing criticism of Rightmove’s pricing structure, stating he will withdraw his business unless the portal reduces its fees.
McCartney, who owns McCartney & Partners, described the portal as “bloody expensive” and urged fellow agents to “be strong” in challenging Rightmove’s annual fee increases. He suggested agents could reduce their reliance on the platform by utilising social media channels.
Legal action and industry discontent
The criticism comes as legal action has been filed against Rightmove, with agents potentially set for a £1.5 billion payout if claims that the portal abused its dominant market position prove successful. Last year, independent estate agent Shaun Adams launched a petition accusing Rightmove of “bullying” and “daylight robbery” over its fee structure.
The dispute over portal fees comes at a time when UK property sales have fallen 6.2% year-on-year despite listings growth, potentially increasing pressure on agents’ operating margins.
Career transition
McCartney, who became known for becoming the first candidate to voluntarily leave The Apprentice after failing a task he had promised to win, is currently selling his agency business. He previously worked for Rubicon and Sequence UK, becoming a branch manager at 21.
He has been approached to manage a portfolio for another business, including a 2,500-unit development, and is considering whether to continue as an estate agent or establish himself as a property consultant.
The broader property industry has faced regulatory scrutiny in recent months, with the Property Ombudsman expelling six firms over unpaid awards, highlighting ongoing compliance challenges across the sector.
Rightmove has not publicly responded to McCartney’s comments. The portal remains the UK’s largest property listing platform, though agents have increasingly questioned whether the cost justifies the return on investment.
