How Does Purplebricks Work? A Complete Guide | Fraser Bond

Purplebricks is a UK-based online estate agency that offers an alternative to traditional high-street estate agents. Instead of charging a commission on property sales, it operates on a fixed-fee model, allowing sellers to list their properties for a set price. This approach aims to reduce costs for homeowners while leveraging digital tools for property transactions. But how exactly does Purplebricks work? This article explores its process, services, pros and cons, and how Fraser Bond offers an alternative with expert guidance and market experience.

How Purplebricks Works

Purplebricks operates as a hybrid estate agency, combining online property management tools with in-person assistance from local agents. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how it works:

1. Booking a Valuation

• Sellers visit the Purplebricks website and book a free valuation with a local property expert.
• The expert provides an estimated market value based on recent sales, demand, and location trends.

2. Choosing a Fixed-Fee Package

• Sellers must pay upfront for Purplebricks’ services. Fees typically range from £999 to £1,499, depending on location.
• Unlike traditional estate agents, Purplebricks charges sellers regardless of whether their property sells.

3. Listing the Property

• After payment, Purplebricks creates a property listing, including:
  • Professional photos and a floor plan.
  • A description of the property.
  • Listing on major UK portals like Rightmove and Zoopla.

4. Managing Viewings & Offers

• Sellers handle viewings themselves or pay extra for accompanied viewings by a local expert.
• Offers are managed through the Purplebricks online platform, where buyers can submit offers directly.

5. Negotiation & Sale Progression

• Sellers negotiate directly with buyers, but Purplebricks does not provide in-depth negotiation support like traditional agents.
• Purplebricks offers additional services, including conveyancing and mortgage referrals, for an extra fee.

6. Completing the Sale

• Once an offer is accepted, the sale progresses as usual, involving legal paperwork, contracts, and final payments.
• Purplebricks does not take a commission but charges the full fee upfront, even if the property doesn’t sell.

Additional Services Purplebricks Offers

While the basic listing fee covers standard services, sellers can pay extra for:

• Premium Listings – Increased exposure on platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla.
• Accompanied Viewings – If sellers prefer not to conduct viewings themselves.
• Mortgage & Conveyancing Services – Partnered providers handle the legal and financial aspects of property sales.
• Home Reports & Surveys – Optional add-ons for property condition assessments.

Pros & Cons of Using Purplebricks

Pros

✔ Lower Fixed Fees – Costs are significantly lower than traditional agents’ commission-based fees.
✔ 24/7 Online Access – Sellers can manage their property listing at any time.
✔ Listings on Major Portals – Properties appear on Rightmove, Zoopla, and other key platforms.
✔ Flexibility – Sellers control viewings and negotiations, reducing agent involvement.

Cons

✘ Upfront Payment, Regardless of Sale – Fees are non-refundable, even if the property doesn’t sell.
✘ Limited Negotiation Support – Sellers must handle most of the process independently.
✘ Extra Costs for Key Services – Accompanied viewings and other features require additional payments.
✘ Customer Service Issues – Some users report poor communication and delays in support.

How Fraser Bond Provides a Better Alternative

While Purplebricks offers low-cost online services, Fraser Bond provides a personalized, expert-driven approach that ensures sellers achieve the best possible sale price. Here’s how we stand out:

✅ No Upfront Fees – We only charge a commission upon a successful sale, ensuring we work in your best interest.
✅ Comprehensive Property Marketing – Professional staging, premium listings, and targeted advertising.
✅ Expert Negotiation & Sale Support – Unlike Purplebricks, we negotiate actively to secure the best deal for you.
✅ Dedicated Local Experts – Our team provides tailored advice and full guidance throughout the process.

For sellers seeking a full-service, results-driven estate agency, Fraser Bond delivers unmatched expertise and market knowledge.

Conclusion

Purplebricks simplifies property sales by offering a fixed-fee, online-based service, but it comes with limitations, including upfront costs, limited negotiation support, and additional fees for essential services. While it may suit sellers comfortable with handling their own viewings and negotiations, many prefer the personalized expertise of a traditional estate agency. Fraser Bond ensures every client receives full support, professional marketing, and expert negotiation, resulting in the best possible sale outcome.