If someone has their house listed with multiple agencies...

[beansagain]

...will they avoid agency fees if I make them an offer direct via a private viewing?

I know that with sole agency, the sole agent gets the fee no matter how the buyer comes to the property and that he'll also get the fee if he introduces someone and they put in a private offer long after the sole agency contract has expired but I'm not clear on the terms of a multi-agency agreement.

Obviously, I'm asking as there is a house near me listed with multiple agencies and I wonder if they would welcome a direct offer if it will save them estate agency fees.

Think about it logically: how do you know it is for sale?

Because there's a board outside and it's advertised on Rightmove/Zoopla, etc. I'm guessing.

The same principle usually applies with multiple agencies and they often double their fees to vendors for a multi agency agreement. Arrange to view with the agent you prefer as that's who you'll be dealing with if you make an offer, etc.

Agreed multi agency terms and conditions are exactly the same as sole agent - they just increase their fee.

The vendors would be foolish to take such a risk.

When I see a house listed with 2 agents I always think the seller must be desperate to sell. I'd be tempted to put a cheeky offer in instead - with an agent though.