Why We Don’t Offer Zero-Week Contracts

Zero-week contracts are often presented as being “vendor-friendly”.

In reality, they rarely are.

Bringing a property to market properly is expensive. Professional photography, marketing, portal exposure, staff time, viewings and sales progression all require significant upfront investment from an agent.

When an agent works under a zero-week contract, the dynamic can change.

Misaligned Incentives

With no guaranteed commitment, the pressure shifts onto the agent to secure a sale as quickly as possible — sometimes at the expense of achieving the best outcome.

That can lead to:

  • Prioritising speed over strategy

  • Encouraging acceptance of the first offer

  • Reduced appetite to invest properly in marketing

  • Less patience to find the right buyer

That pressure does not benefit the seller.

Time Is a Strategic Advantage

A well-handled sale isn’t rushed — it’s managed.

Allowing a sensible initial marketing period gives:

  • The market time to respond

  • Buyers the confidence to engage

  • Proper competition to build

This often leads to stronger offers and better buyer quality.

Our Commitment Works Both Ways

When we take a property to market, we commit fully — financially, professionally and strategically.

In return, we ask for a reasonable period in which to do the job properly, without pressure to rush or compromise.

That alignment of interests protects the vendor — and leads to better results.

Not offering zero-week contracts isn’t restrictive.
It’s responsible.

We don't say we are different. We prove it. 

22 /02/2026

Why We Don’t Offer Zero-Week Contracts

by Carol Bassett
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