Buying a property without a realtor may seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and preparation, it’s entirely possible—and could save you thousands in commission fees. In 2025, with the rise of online property platforms, DIY conveyancing options, and virtual tools, more people than ever are choosing to purchase homes independently.
If you’re considering going solo, this complete guide will walk you through every step of buying a property without a real estate agent.
Why Buy Property Without a Realtor?
- Save Money: Avoid paying 2-3% commission fees.
- More Control: You manage negotiations, viewings, and decisions directly.
- Faster Transactions: Without a middleman, communication can be quicker.
- Better Deals: Some sellers may prefer direct buyers and offer discounts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Buying Property Without a Realtor
1. Get Pre-Approved for a Mortgage
Before you start shopping, secure a mortgage pre-approval. It:
- Confirms how much you can afford
- Makes you a more attractive buyer to sellers
- Speeds up the buying process
Tip: Compare multiple lenders to find the best interest rates and terms.
2. Define Your Property Needs
List your must-haves and nice-to-haves, including:
Having a clear vision prevents wasted time on unsuitable properties.
3. Search for Properties
Use online portals like:
- Zameen.com
- Olx
- Khita.com.pk
- Facebook Marketplace (for private sales)
Set up alerts for new listings matching your criteria.
4. Schedule Viewings
Contact the seller or their listing agent directly to arrange viewings. When viewing a property:
- Inspect structural elements (roof, walls, foundation)
- Check plumbing, heating, and electrics
- Look for signs of damp or pest infestation
- Assess the neighbourhood at different times of day
Pro Tip: Bring a checklist to every viewing.
5. Research the Property’s Value
- Compare similar sold properties in the area
- Use online valuation tools
- Check the property’s price history
This ensures you don’t overpay and strengthens your negotiation position.
6. Make an Offer
Submit a formal offer in writing. Your offer letter should include:
- Offered purchase price
- Any conditions (e.g., subject to survey)
- Expected timeline for completion
Be prepared for some back-and-forth negotiation.
7. Hire a Solicitor or Conveyancer
Even without a realtor, you still need a solicitor or licensed conveyancer to handle:
- Legal paperwork
- Title checks
- Contracts
- Transfer of funds
Tip: Choose a solicitor with fixed-fee pricing and good online reviews.
8. Arrange for a Survey
While not legally required, getting a property survey is highly recommended to:
- Identify structural issues
- Uncover hidden problems
- Protect your investment
Types of surveys:
- Homebuyer Report
- Full Structural Survey
9. Finalize the Mortgage
Once your offer is accepted and the survey is satisfactory:
- Complete the mortgage application
- Submit required documents (pay slips, bank statements, ID)
Your lender will also conduct a valuation of the property.
10. Exchange Contracts
After legal checks are complete, you will exchange contracts with the seller, which legally binds the sale.
At this stage:
- Pay the deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price)
- Set the completion date
11. Completion Day
On completion day:
- Transfer the remaining balance
- Receive the keys
- Officially become the property owner!
Congratulations—you’ve successfully bought a home without a realtor!
Pros and Cons of Buying Without a Realtor
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Save on commission fees | More administrative responsibilities |
| Direct communication with seller | Risk of missing legal details |
| Full control over the process | Potential negotiation disadvantages |
| Learn valuable property skills | Higher stress and time commitment |
Essential Tips for First-Time DIY Buyers
- Stay Organized: Keep a dedicated folder for all documents.
- Ask for Professional Help When Needed: Solicitors, surveyors, and mortgage brokers are key.
- Don’t Rush: Take your time reviewing contracts and offers.
- Get Everything in Writing: Always document agreements.
- Be Realistic About Repairs: Budget for unexpected costs.
FAQs About Buying Property Without a Realtor
Q1: Is it legal to buy property without an estate agent in the UK?
Absolutely. There is no legal requirement to use an estate agent.
Q2: Can I negotiate the price without a realtor?
Yes. Research comparable sales and present data-driven offers.
Q3: How do I find properties for sale by owner?
Search online platforms, local classifieds, and word of mouth.
Q4: What if the seller has an agent?
You can still deal directly with the agent as the buyer.
Q5: How much money can I save by not using a realtor?
You could save between 1%-3% of the property’s sale price, amounting to thousands.
Final Thoughts: Should You Buy Without a Realtor?
Buying a property without a realtor is a bold move—but entirely achievable with careful planning. You’ll save significant money, gain in-depth knowledge of the buying process, and enjoy direct control over your purchase.
However, be prepared for the extra responsibilities. Always lean on expert solicitors and surveyors for critical steps.
