Before You Sign an Estate Agent’s Contract, Ask This One Question
This is where most sellers go wrong.
They meet a few agents.
Hear a few valuations.
Pick the one they “like” the most…
…and sign.
That decision alone can cost you tens of thousands.
Watch This First (Then Read Below)
@john.savage Before you sign an estate agents contract, ask this question... #propertysales #estateagency #neverfitin #savagetruth ♬ original sound - John Savage
The Question That Changes Everything
Before you sign anything, ask this:
“If you don’t deliver on the price you’ve just told me… what are the consequences?”
Then stop talking.
And listen carefully.
What You’re Actually Testing
This isn’t about being difficult.
You’re testing:
- Confidence
- Accountability
- Belief in their own strategy
Because any agent can give you a number.
Very few will stand behind it.
Savage Truth:
The way an agent answers this question tells you exactly how your sale will go.
The Two Types of Answers You’ll Get
1. The Professional
They take responsibility.
They might say:
“If I don’t achieve that price, I’ll reduce my fee — or sell it for free.”
That’s accountability.
They’re backing their strategy with consequences.
2. The Amateur
They start explaining:
- “Well, the market might…”
- “It depends on buyer behaviour…”
- “We can’t guarantee anything…”
- “We’ll review it after a few weeks…”
That’s not an answer.
That’s a warning.
They’ve just told you:
“I don’t fully believe this price myself.”
Why This Question Works
Because it cuts through:
- Sales scripts
- Charm
- Overvaluations
And forces one thing:
Truth.
What Most Sellers Don’t Realise
When an agent avoids accountability, what they’re really saying is:
“If this doesn’t work, you’ll carry the risk — not me.”
That’s how sellers end up:
- Stuck on the market
- Chasing reductions
- Losing time and leverage
Mid-Post Check
If an agent truly believes they can achieve a price…
Why wouldn’t they stand behind it?
This Is About Control
The right agent gives you:
- A clear strategy
- A defined price position
- And accountability if it doesn’t work
The wrong agent gives you:
- A number that sounds good
- Followed by weeks of uncertainty
If You’re About to Choose an Agent
Slow down.
Ask the question.
Listen to the answer.
Then decide.
Want a Straight Answer Before You Commit?
If you’ve had multiple valuations and don’t know who to trust:
👉 Book a Property Audit (£50)
I’ll break down:
- What your property is actually worth
- Which agent is telling the truth
- What strategy will get you the best result
No fluff. Just clarity.
Next Step Reading
- 👉 Two Agents. £75,000 Difference. What Do You Do?
- 👉 How to Get the Best Price for Your Renovated Flat
- 👉 Why Overpricing Is the Most Expensive Mistake Sellers Make
About John Savage
Straight-talking property advice for sellers who want results — not excuses.
No long contracts.
No fluff.
No games.
Just strategy, execution, and accountability.