Choosing the wrong estate agent in London can cost you £15,000 or more in lost negotiating power. With average house prices at £655,000, according to 2025 Plumplot statistics, even a 3% difference in your final sale price is significant money left on the table.
We spent three weeks analysing client reviews, comparing fee structures, and examining actual sales data from 40+ London agencies. The results surprised us; the most prominent names don’t always deliver the best service.
This guide breaks down the top 5 estate and letting agents who actually earn their commission in 2026. You’ll see exactly what makes each one different, who they serve best, and how to pick the right match for your specific situation.
1. Oliver Jaques: Excellence in East & South-East London
Oliver Jaques takes the top spot for its local market expertise, focusing on East and South-East London, including Lewisham, Greenwich, Deptford, and Blackheath.
Why They Stand Out:
Their customer service sets them apart. Clients praise their responsiveness and professionalism throughout the buying and selling process. The sales progression team knows how to push deals through quickly without cutting corners.
What Makes Them Different:
They communicate clearly at every step. No overly pushy sales talks, and definitely no surprises. Their team stays patient even during stressful negotiations. They know the local market inside and out because they focus on specific neighbourhoods rather than spreading thin across all of London.
Best For:
- First-time buyers who need guidance
- Families moving to East or South-East London
- Anyone who values personal attention over being just another number
2. Foxtons: Technology-Driven Service
Foxtons operates over 50 branches across London. Their revenue jumped 11% to £163 million in 2024, showing strong market performance.
Their Strength:
They use advanced technology for property marketing. Their lettings infrastructure runs deep, making them solid for both sales and rentals. A excellent option if you need fast results.
Best For:
- Sellers who want aggressive marketing
- Properties in high-demand areas
- Landlords needing lettings management
Keep in mind their fees typically run over 3% plus VAT.
3. Savills: Prime Property Specialists
Founded in 1855, Savills brings over 170 years of experience. They won Best London Estate Agency of the Year in 2021.
What They Offer:
Strong research department that provides data-backed valuations. Their international network attracts overseas buyers. They handle complex sales and new-build properties well.
Best For:
- High-value properties
- Sellers targeting international buyers
- Those needing a detailed market analysis
Their fees can reach up to 5% plus VAT due to their premium positioning.
4. Knight Frank: Cross-Border Expertise
Knight Frank specialises in prime properties with strong international connections. Their research-led pricing helps sellers avoid overvaluing or undervaluing properties.
Notable Features:
They maintain specialist teams for different property types. Their global network brings serious international buyers. Good at handling super-prime sales above £5 million.
Best For:
- Prime Central London properties
- Sellers with unique or high-end homes
- Anyone needing an international buyer reach
5. Hamptons: Network Coverage
Hamptons runs 85+ branches across London and the South. They blend corporate resources with local market knowledge.
Why Consider Them:
Suitable for managing property chains across multiple areas. They understand family moves and relocations well. Their broad network helps efficiently match buyers and sellers.
Best For:
- Families relocating within London
- Multi-property transactions
- Buyers needing cross-suburb options
Quick Comparison: Top 5 at a Glance
| Agency | Best For | Coverage Area | Typical Fees | Standout Feature |
| Oliver Jaques | First-time buyers & families | East & South-East London | 1.5-2.5% + VAT | Personalised service & local expertise |
| Foxtons | Fast sales & lettings | All London zones | 3% + VAT | Technology-driven marketing |
| Savills | High-value properties | Prime locations | Up to 5% + VAT | International network |
| Knight Frank | Super-prime sales | Central London | 4-5% + VAT | Cross-border expertise |
| Hamptons | Family relocations | London & South | 2.5-3.5% + VAT | Multi-area network |
How to Choose the Right Agent for You
Location matters most. Pick an agent who actively works in your specific neighbourhood. Check their recent sales within half a mile of your property.
Ask these questions during consultations:
- How many properties have you sold on my street in the past year?
- What’s your average time from listing to sale?
- Who handles sales progression?
Read recent client reviews. Look for patterns in feedback about communication and follow-through.
Meet with 2-3 agents before deciding. Trust your gut when it comes to who understands your needs.
According to the latest property market forecast, rental prices grew 11% in the 12 months to January 2025. The market shows strength despite economic headwinds.
Final Thoughts
The right estate agent changes your entire property experience. They handle negotiations, manage paperwork, and keep deals moving forward.
Don’t rush your decision. Your agent represents you in one of life’s most significant financial moves.
Do your research. Schedule viewings. Ask tough questions.
Start with these five agencies and narrow down based on your specific needs and location. The best agent for your neighbour might not be the best for you.
