Estate Agent vs Property Finder

At Stacks, we are Property Finders or Buying Agents. Many of our clients, whether they are from the UK or elsewhere in the world often ask us what the difference is between property finders and estate agents. Although we work in the property industry, there are some big differences between us and your local estate agent. In this insight, we go into full detail when it comes to estate agent vs property finder.

Property and Investments

In today’s unpredictable economic climate, property continues to stand out as one of the most reliable and rewarding long-term investments. So, whether you’re buying a family home, a countryside retreat, or a second property, Stacks Property Finders are here to help you choose the right property in the right location.

Searching for a property? Make sure you’re equipped with the best advice and representation before you start your search. Contact Stacks today to work with one of our Regional Directors.

Estate Agent vs Property Finder – What’s the Difference?

At first glance, estate agents and property finders may appear to offer similar services—both help clients with property transactions. But the key difference lies in who they represent and whose interests they serve.

Here’s a side-by-side comparison:

Estate Agent:

• Works on behalf of the seller (vendor)
• Paid commission by the seller to achieve the best price
• Markets and promotes properties
• Often represents multiple sellers
• Provides access to properties they are instructed to sell
• Focuses on selling what’s on their books

Property Finder:

• We work exclusively on behalf of the buyer
• Our fee is charged to the buyer for expert, impartial advice
• We have industry contacts, so we can search both on and off-market for opportunities exclusively for you
• We act as your advocate during negotiations – we are very highly skilled at this
• We save you valuable time by filtering unsuitable options
• We can also provide insight into local areas and uncover future planning potential and other values

Before you begin your property search, consider what is important for your journey. Contact Stacks to speak to a property finder and put your needs first.

Advantages of Using a Property Finder to Search for Your Perfect Property

Working with a property finder means more than just convenience—it’s a smarter, less stressful and more strategic way to buy. Especially in competitive or niche markets, the benefits are significant:

• Access to off-market properties that never make it to the estate agents’ websites let alone on to Rightmove or Zoopla.
• Unbiased advice focused solely on your goals and priorities
• We save you time and make sure there are no more wasted weekends on unsuitable viewings. We do all the initial viewings for you and only show you properties you’ll actually want to see.
• We provide local expertise. Our Regional Directors know all about the local area, so they can answer all your questions – from school catchments to commute times and everything in between.
• We are experienced in tactical negotiation, so we can help you secure better deals.
• We provide end-to-end support and are here to guide you from search to completion.
• By working with us, you know there is someone in your corner every step of the way. This can make you feel less stressed and less alone.

Buying a property is a big investment – whether it’s your first or your fiftieth, having an experienced advocate on your side can make all the difference. Contact our property finders today to work with us.

The Property Finding Process with Stacks

At Stacks, we have been in the property market for over 40 years! During this time, we have perfected the art of property finding and ensure our clients receive everything they deserve.

Here is the process we use for success, which will be tailored to be bespoke to you and your house hunt;

1. Initial appointment

We book an initial appointment with you to understand your requirements. What your checklist is, your Needs, Wants, Nice to Haves and Not Required elements of your property. We also discuss location. You may already know exactly where you want to live, but if you don’t, that’s ok; we can help you find the perfect place.

2. Initial Search and Shortlist

Taking the information from our initial appointment, we begin our search. We talk to all our industry contacts to make sure we are leaving no stone unturned in helping you find your dream property. We go to the initial viewings, so you don’t have to. We build a shortlist of properties for you that we know you will actually want to see.

3. Property/ Location Visits

Now is the time when you view the properties. If you’re moving to a new location or trying to decide on a location, this is also a great opportunity to take in the surroundings and get a feel for the area.

4. Offers and Negotiation

When we have found a property you are interested in, we handle the negotiation on your behalf. With our industry knowledge and negotiation skills, you can rest assured that you’ll be securing your property at the correct price.

5. Legal Bodies and Paperwork

Dealing with solicitors and paperwork can be a real drag, but don’t worry – you can delegate most of this to us : we can organise all the inspections and chase up queries left, right, and centre to ensure the conveyancing process is as smooth and speedy as possible.  

6. Organising Completion and Moving Dates

When everything is sorted, we not only liaise to find the best completion date, but we can also help with booking removal companies and more. Just let us know what you need.

7. Relax

Ensuring you have moved into your new home with ease is one of the best parts of our job. We hope you enjoy your new home – now it’s time to relax and make memories.

Work with Stacks

If you’re ready to make your property hunt less stressful, contact our team today. We would be delighted to take you along the journey to finding the home of your dreams. Simply contact us and let us know which area you’re looking in, and we will assign you a Regional Director who will become your new mentor in your search.