FAQs
(frequently asked questions)
Honest, straightforward answers to the questions sellers ask us most.
If your question isn’t here, just ask – we’re always happy to help, with no obligation.

Frequently asked questions
How much is the sales fee?
Our standard sales fee for most sales is 1.2% including VAT (1% + VAT). Our fees are: all-inclusive, on a no-sale no-fee basis, and only payable upon successful completion of a sale. We include: all photos, floorplans, viewings, a for sale board (if you want one), drone photos, and marketing on Rightmove and Zoopla. Occasionally, where a property value is below a certain level, rather than a % fee we will charge a competitive fixed fee amount – again, all-inclusive and only payable upon completion.
Should I use more than one estate agent?
In most cases, it is a bad idea. We usually advise sellers against doing this – even if it means we miss out, we would rather give the most honest and useful advice. It can sometimes seem counterintuitive, but you will often achieve a better final outcome if you just pick one decent and competent agent to work for you.
Which areas do you cover?
We cover a very large area. From our office in Harrogate, we sell properties throughout Yorkshire and Cumbria, as well as most parts of County Durham, Lincolnshire, Lancashire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. We also regularly sell properties in other parts of the UK, particularly for existing/previous clients, or where we have been recommended.
Do you sell properties like mine?
Almost certainly, yes. We sell all types of residential property, as well as land, commercial, agricultural, mixed use and guest houses etc. Although we are particularly experienced in selling period, village & individual properties, we also successfully sell a lot of modern and mainstream terraces, semis and flats in towns and cities.
Do you only sell high value properties?
We cover all price ranges. The majority of our properties are in the £100k to £1M range, which covers the vast majority of the UK market. We also regularly handle lower priced homes and investment properties, as well as £1M+ properties – especially larger rural properties or prime urban locations.
Do you accompany viewings?
Yes. This is included within our standard service. We can carry out viewings 7 days a week, including evenings. Our vendor clients can also do their own viewings if they would prefer to. Either way, we will give you prompt (and constructive) feedback after every viewing.
Are we tied into a long contract?
No. There’s no minimum fixed contract period – we use a simple, plain-English contract with a rolling notice period, right from the start.
Are there any hidden extra charges?
No. There are no set-up fees, no hidden extras and no withdrawal fees. Photography, floorplans, aerial/drone photography, plot maps and viewings are all included as standard.
How quickly can you get my property on the market?
It depends. In many cases, we’re able to put a property on the market within 24-48 hours of doing the photos and floorplans, though the exact timescale depends on things like EPC availability, client ID checks and photo processing time. Much of the process is done by email or online, so there are no delays from having to print and post documents.
Have another question? You’re welcome to call us on 01423 206060 or send us a message.
On the market with another estate agent?
We can provide a free and no-obligation second opinion and marketing advice, to help you achieve a successful sale.
What makes us different
A large coverage area
Covering Yorkshire, Cumbria and surrounding areas – one of the largest areas of any independent estate agency in the UK.
Specialist properties
Particularly skilled in selling unique and niche properties: period, rural, Grade II listed, equestrian and lifestyle homes.
No referral fees
Unlike virtually all other UK estate agents, we never take referral fees or make extra income from any other services.
Transparent sales fee
A typical sales fee of 1.2% including VAT (1% + VAT), all-inclusive – no hidden extras and no nasty small print.
A focused service
We limit the number of properties we deal with at any one time, so every client gets the attention needed for the best possible sale.
Helpful Q&A articles about selling, moving and property
More in-depth answers to common questions, from over 25 years in property sales.
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Valuations
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Probate and inherited property
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Rural, period and character property
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Struggling to sell
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What our clients say
“I have sold my last 2 houses with David at Dales & Shires. The dedication, honest advice and communication have been impressive and refreshing.”
Brian W · Skipton, North Yorkshire
“We highly recommend Dales & Shires. Their service and presentation of our property was exceptional They sold our house for the asking price, and kept us updated all the way through.”
Sue and Malcolm D · Filey, East Coast
We would love to have you as a client too. For a free & friendly chat about how we can help:
Do we sound like your sort of agent?
If you are thinking of selling in the near future, or currently trying to sell with another agent, we would love to hear from you.
Our advice is free, friendly and without obligation.