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Advisory fees & costs
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Advisory fees & costs
2 questionsCould I owe commission to two brokers after switching?
Potentially, depending on the contracts and buyer introductions. Have a solicitor review post-termination commission and exclusivity before instructing another broker.
What this means in practice
Before changing brokers, assemble the original engagement, termination correspondence and a list of buyers already approached. A later transaction may involve someone first introduced during the earlier appointment, creating competing fee claims. Owners should resolve how existing prospects will be treated before the new adviser starts contacting them or negotiating on their behalf.
What the owner should consider
Commission entitlement is a contractual issue; a solicitor should assess overlapping appointments and any continuing fee provisions.
How can I assess whether exit-adviser fees are worthwhile?
Compare the services, relevant experience, expected owner workload and fee triggers. Model the cost if the sale completes and if it does not, including expenses and termination charges.
What this means in practice
Assess fees against the work and support you will actually receive, not an unsupported promise of a higher price. Ask who prepares materials, qualifies purchasers, manages negotiations and keeps the process moving. Compare proposals using the same hypothetical outcomes, including withdrawal or an unsuccessful sale. This makes differences in incentives, additional charges and owner workload easier to recognise.
What the owner should consider
An adviser's contribution cannot be isolated reliably from market conditions, business performance and the quality of available buyers.
Read the full advisory fees & costs guide
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