Selling a house can feel a bit like juggling flaming torches. You’ve got repairs, paperwork, estate agent fees, and then there’s marketing. The marketing bit is tricky. Spend too little, and no one notices. Spend too much, and… well, you hope it’s worth it. Let’s unpack it all for Middlesbrough sellers in 2026.
Estate Agent Fees and Marketing Packages
Most people start with an estate agent. In Middlesbrough, fees usually sit around 1.5% to 2% of the sale price. That covers the basics: listing your property on Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket.
Some agents will offer fancier packages. Think of it as the difference between a plain sandwich and a full afternoon tea. Extras might include:
- Professional photos
- Floorplans
- Virtual tours
- Premium listing placement
Costs for these can run £200 to £500, sometimes more. It sounds like a chunk of money, but good photos and floorplans often make buyers stop scrolling—and that’s half the battle.
Tip: Ask your agent exactly what’s included. A small spend upfront can save you weeks on the market.
Advertising: Online and Offline
Even with an agent, you might want extra exposure. Social media, a small local ad, or even a sign outside can help.
| Method | Typical 2026 Cost | Notes |
| Facebook/Instagram ads | £50–£150 | Targeted at Middlesbrough buyers |
| Premium portal listing | £100–£500 | Extra visibility online |
| Local newspaper ad | £40–£100 | Great for older buyers |
| Signage outside property | £20–£50 | Often included with agent fees |
Small investments here can pay off. In 2026, most buyers start online. Your property needs to grab attention fast, or it gets scrolled past—poof, gone.
Pre-Sale Prep: Repairs and Presentation
Marketing doesn’t stop at adverts. Buyers notice chipped paint, dodgy taps, carpets that have seen better days. Pre-sale prep helps:
- Minor repairs (£50–£500 depending on work)
- Fresh paint (£100–£300 per couple of rooms)
- Cleaning (£50–£150)
- Staging or decluttering (£100+, optional)
Even tiny fixes can make your house feel loved, and buyers pay attention. Kitchens, bathrooms, and the front door are like the cover of a book—first impressions really matter.
Legal and Compliance Costs
Some costs aren’t flashy, but skipping them causes delays.
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): required before marketing. Costs £60–£120.
- Solicitor/conveyancing fees: £850–£1,500.
- Land registry fees: £20–£910 depending on price.
Buyers often ask about these early. Have them ready and your sale moves smoother. Less faff, fewer hold-ups.
Balancing Costs and Returns
Here’s the tricky bit: spending more doesn’t always mean getting more.
- Professional photos and floorplans help sell faster, usually for a better price.
- Online ads get your property in front of serious buyers early.
- Minor staging and repairs make your home feel well-cared for rather than abandoned.
Think of it like planting a garden. You could toss a few seeds in the soil and hope for flowers. Or you can water, fertilise, weed a little, and watch something beautiful grow. Spending wisely usually pays off.
Quick Takeaways
- Check exactly what your estate agent fees cover.
- Invest in photos, floorplans, and maybe a virtual tour.
- Targeted online ads can make a big difference.
- Prep your home with small repairs, cleaning, and a bit of staging.
- Keep EPC and legal documents ready to avoid delays.
Selling in Middlesbrough does not need to be traumatic. Spend a little wisely on marketing, polish your home, and you’re more likely to sell quickly—and at a good price.
Call Sell House North East at 01642 088037 today for advice and a free valuation.