10/08/2026
Complaints about estate agents just jumped 55% in the first half of 2026 (The Property Ombudsman, reported 4 Aug 2026) — and here's the uncomfortable bit: most of them were avoidable.
The same three gripes come up again and again: reservation fees nobody explained, hidden costs that appear right at the finish line, and legal packs that aren't ready when they should be. Auctions are the worst offenders — just 2% of sales, but four times their share of complaints.
Before you sign with ANY agent, check three things:
1. Are they in a redress scheme (like TPO) with client-money protection?
2. Is every fee in writing, with no surprises?
3. Do they prepare a complete legal pack upfront — not halfway through?
Get those right and you dodge almost every complaint in that report. I'm Andrea at 100 Key Properties in Hornchurch — thinking of selling and want to know exactly where you stand? That bit's free, no obligation. Call 0203 583 1311.