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Julian W A Brief History of Purplebricks:
Founded in 2012 by brothers Michael and Kenny Bruce, Purplebricks quickly transformed the UK property market with its innovative hybrid estate agency model. By combining online technology with local property expertise, Purplebricks offers a transparent and cost-effective alternative to traditional estate agents. Within just a few years, the company had become the UK’s largest online estate agent, and it continues to expand its presence both domestically and internationally.
Fixed Fees and Transparent Pricing: A Smart Choice for Sellers:
One of the biggest draws of Purplebricks is its straightforward pricing model. Unlike traditional estate agents who charge a commission based on the sale price—often between 1.5% and 3%—Purplebricks offers a flat fee, usually between £999 and £1,499 (including VAT) for London properties. In a high-value market like Putney, where the average property price is around £750,000, this can result in significant savings for sellers.
For example, on a £750,000 property, a traditional agent might charge up to £15,000 in fees. With Purplebricks, you could save over £13,000. This transparent, fixed-fee model is particularly appealing to those looking to maximise their profits from the sale without compromising on service quality.
Local Expertise with a Nationwide Reach:
A common concern with online estate agents is whether they offer the local knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of specific property markets. Purplebricks addresses this by employing Local Property Experts (LPEs) who have in-depth knowledge of their designated areas, including Putney. These experts provide personalised advice on property valuations, pricing strategies, and market trends, ensuring that your property is positioned to attract the right buyers.
In addition to local expertise, Purplebricks’ extensive online reach ensures your property is visible on major platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla. This combination of local insight and broad exposure is crucial for sellers in Putney, where competition can be fierce, and getting your property in front of the right audience is key to a successful sale.
Digital Convenience: Managing Your Sale Anytime, Anywhere
Purplebricks stands out for its digital-first approach, offering sellers and buyers the ability to manage their transactions online. Through an easy-to-use app and website, sellers can schedule viewings, communicate directly with potential buyers, and receive offers at any time of the day. This flexibility is ideal for busy professionals who might not have time to coordinate with estate agents during regular working hours.
For buyers, the platform’s convenience extends to booking viewings instantly and making offers online. The ability to negotiate directly through a digital interface suits today’s tech-savvy buyers, particularly in a fast-paced market like Putney’s. This on-demand access to information and communication helps streamline the entire process, making it more efficient for all parties involved.
Purplebricks vs. Traditional Estate Agents: Which Is Right for You?
Choosing the right estate agent in Putney’s competitive property market can be a daunting task. Purplebricks offers a compelling alternative to traditional agents, particularly when it comes to cost and convenience. However, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons based on your specific needs.
Marketing Reach and Property Visibility:
Purplebricks provides extensive online exposure through listings on major property portals, complemented by professional photography, floorplans, and virtual tours. These tools are effective for most properties, but high-value or unique homes might benefit from the more tailored marketing strategies that traditional agents often provide. If your property falls into a niche market or has unique features, a bespoke marketing approach could help achieve a premium sale price.
Service and Support:
Purplebricks allows sellers to take a more active role in managing their sale, which can lead to substantial savings. However, this model requires more involvement from the seller, which might not be suitable for everyone. If you prefer a hands-off experience where the agent handles all aspects of the sale, including viewings and negotiations, a traditional estate agent might offer the peace of mind you’re looking for, especially for more complex transactions.
Local Expertise vs. Personalised Service:
While Purplebricks’ Local Property Experts offer valuable insights into the Putney market, traditional agents often provide a deeper level of personalisation and local networking that can be crucial, particularly for high-stakes or luxury properties. If your property requires specialised attention or if you value a more personalised service, it might be worth considering the additional cost of a traditional agent.
Conclusion:
Purplebricks as a Viable Option for Putney Sellers
Purplebricks presents a modern, cost-effective alternative to traditional estate agents, making it a strong contender for those looking to sell their property in Putney. With its fixed fees, local expertise, and digital convenience, Purplebricks is an excellent choice for sellers who are comfortable managing parts of the process themselves and want to maximise their profits. However, for those who prefer a fully-managed service or have properties that might benefit from more bespoke marketing, traditional agents still hold value.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Whether you’re selling a family home or a luxury flat, Purplebricks offers an innovative solution that’s worth considering in today’s property market.
Always use a UK lawyer when buying or selling UK property.
