Online estate agents have changed the UK property market in recent years and Strike Estate Agents is one of the most talked about. They advertise themselves as a “free” estate agent and claim to help sellers save thousands on fees. But is it really free and how does it compare to traditional estate agents? This review will look at how Strike works, what it costs and whether it’s a good choice for selling your home.
Introduction to Online Estate Agents
Online estate agents have transformed the property market, offering sellers a new way to list and sell their homes. Unlike traditional estate agents, online agents operate mainly through digital platforms, allowing you to manage your property listings, arrange viewings and even get mortgage advice, all from your computer or smartphone. One of the biggest draws of online estate agents like Strike is their completely free service which can help you save money on estate agent fees. Instead of charging commission, these online estate agents often rely on referral fees and additional services to make money. This business model means you can access essential services for free and still have the option to buy extras if you need to. As more people look for ways to save money and streamline the selling process, online estate agents are becoming a more popular alternative to high street estate agents.
Who Are Strike Online Estate Agents?
Strike (formerly Housesimple) is an online estate agent operating in England as an online agent that aims to disrupt the property industry with its digital-first approach. Instead of charging a standard estate agency commission, they offer their basic selling service completely free of charge. Strike’s business model is different from traditional and other online estate agents by generating revenue through referral fees and optional paid services, not upfront or commission-based fees. You can list your property on Rightmove, Zoopla and other portals without paying upfront or commission-based fees. This review will look at the effectiveness and transparency of Strike estate agent.
Is Strike Really Free?
Yes – Strike doesn’t charge for their core services, they offer these as free services like listing your property, arranging viewings and negotiating offers. However they make money in other ways, mainly through optional extras and referrals. Strike also earns a referral fee when you use partner services like mortgage brokers or conveyancers. Previously Strike was a paid service before they switched to their current free model.
Strike Estate Agents Costs and Fees Explained
Strike’s free service includes:
- A property valuation.
- Professional photos and floorplans.
- Listing on Rightmove, Zoopla and OnTheMarket.
- Buyer enquiries and offer negotiation.
- A sale board as a standard feature.
Extra services like enhanced professional photography, virtual tours and detailed floor plans are available to boost your property’s appeal.
However optional services and add on services come with costs such as:
- Paid services like a premium listing on property portals which increases your property’s visibility and generates more views.
- Hosted viewings where a strike agent can be assigned to conduct viewings on your behalf if you don’t want to show buyers around yourself.
- Mortgage and conveyancing referrals.
- Marketing add-ons like social media advertising.
- Additional sale boards for increased local exposure.
Strike’s services include a range of free and paid options so you can tailor your experience. You can sell for free but many sellers end up using extra services and paid extras which is how Strike makes money. Additional support is also available for more complex transactions but may incur extra costs.
Comparison with High Street Estate Agents
When it comes to selling your home choosing between high street estate agents and online agents can be a tough decision. High street estate agents have long been valued for their personal service, local knowledge and face to face support. However online estate agents like Strike are changing the game by offering a free service which includes professional photography, online valuations and a wide range of services – all from your own home. While high street agents may offer more hands on approach online agents can offer significant savings and greater flexibility. When you compare estate agents it’s important to weigh up the services offered, quality of professional photography and the convenience of managing your sale online. Reading reviews from other customers can also help you decide which type of agent is best for you.
Advantages of Using Strike
- No selling fee – Huge savings compared to traditional agents charging 1–2% commission. Unlike agents who use a fixed fee model Strike charges no selling fee at all.
- Wide exposure – Properties are listed on all major portals.
- User friendly app – Easy to track enquiries and manage your sale.
- Flexibility – You can choose free or paid extras depending on your needs.
- Support throughout the process – Strike supports sellers every step of the way from listing to completion.
- Fast response – Many users report quick replies from the Strike team.
Drawbacks of Strike
- Less personal service – Less hands on compared to high street agents, no local agent or local agents to provide bespoke support and in-depth local knowledge.
- No experienced agent support – Unlike traditional agencies you won’t have the guidance of an experienced agent who knows the local market.
- Poor communication – Some users have reported poor communication which can impact customer satisfaction and the success of your sale.
- Pressured to buy extras – Some sellers feel pushed to buy upgrades.
- Regional restrictions – Only operates in England.
- DIY involvement – You’ll have to host your own viewings and do more admin.
Photography and Marketing Services
One of the best features of the free service is the professional photography which is essential for making your property stand out to buyers. High quality images can make a big difference in attracting interest and Strike will make sure your home is presented in the best possible way. In addition to professional photography Strike lists your property on all the major portals including Rightmove and Zoopla to get your property in front of a wide audience. The online platform allows you to manage your property listings, schedule viewings and track offers so you have full control over the selling process. These marketing services are designed to get you more buyers and a successful sale all for free.
Awards and Accolades
Strike has a great reputation in the estate agency industry for its innovative approach and service. It’s been named best online estate agent at the ESTAS, an award based on customer feedback and industry performance. Strike has also won several other awards for its customer service and marketing so it’s clear it’s committed to giving sellers a top notch experience. These awards not only prove Strike’s success as an online estate agent but also its position as a leader in the online estate sector.
Funding and Financial Stability
Strike’s ability to offer a free service is underpinned by a solid foundation of funding. The company has attracted investment from high profile investors including Sir Charles Dunstone and Roger Taylor. This funding has allowed Strike to expand its services, invest in new technology and keep its commitment to a free service to customers. Financial stability is a key consideration when choosing an estate agent as it means the company can support you throughout your sale. With strong investor backing Strike is well placed to be a reliable choice for sellers who want to save money without compromising on service.
Strike Reviews
Strike has received many good reviews across various platforms with customers praising the savings and ease of use. Reviews online show many sellers said Strike worked well for simple sales. Review sites like Trustpilot are useful for checking Strike’s reputation, with a high volume of good reviews but also some bad reviews. Bad reviews often focus on support and upselling especially for more complex transactions compared to high street agents. Overall this strike review finds most feedback is positive but you should consider both good and bad reviews when evaluating the service.
Is Strike Right for You?
Strike could be a good option if you want to save money and don’t mind being more hands on with the selling process. It’s particularly suited to sellers with simple properties in areas of high demand. However Strike may not offer all the services some sellers expect from traditional agents like in person viewings or print advertising which are often included by other estate agents. While Strike does offer some useful services like mortgage advice and conveyancing you should consider whether you need other services that may be included or excluded depending on the agent. To make an informed decision gather all the information and compare Strike’s services with other estate agents so you can choose the best for you.
Conclusion
Strike really does offer a free service to sell your home but be aware of the add ons and always check for hidden fees when comparing agents. Strike helps sellers avoid the high fees charged by traditional estate agents making it one of the most cost effective ways to get your property listed. With thousands of properties sold Strike has proven it can close deals. They support sellers throughout the entire sale process from valuation to completion and make sure you understand the roles of all parties involved in the transaction. If you want more guidance a traditional agent may still be worth the commission.
Strike Estate Agents FAQs
Is Strike really free?
Yes, their basic package is free including a free valuation. Add ons and referral services cost money.
How does Strike make money if it’s free?
Strike makes money by upselling premium services and referral fees from conveyancing, mortgage partners and insurance advice.
Do I have to host my own viewings with Strike?
Yes unless you pay extra for their hosted viewing service.
What is included in the estate agent’s fee?
With Strike the basic estate agent’s fee is £0 for their standard package which includes property listing, free valuation and marketing. Add on services like professional photography or hosted viewings may incur extra charges.
Are Strike estate agents any good?
For many sellers yes – they save money and sell quickly but service levels can vary.
Is Strike better than a high street agent?
It depends. Strike is cheaper but high street agents offer more personal service and hands on support.
How do I contact Strike?
You can contact Strike by phone, email or live chat. For urgent queries you can reach their customer service team via their direct line which is on their website.
