Purplebricks Reviews: An In-Depth Look at the Online Estate Agent
Purplebricks, one of the UK's most recognized online estate agents, has revolutionized property sales by offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional high-street agents. Known for its fixed-fee model and user-friendly platform, Purplebricks aims to provide sellers and buyers with more control over the property transaction process. This article delves into Purplebricks' key features, the pros and cons reported by users, and how it compares to traditional estate agents.
Purplebricks' primary draw is its fixed-fee structure. Unlike traditional estate agents who charge a percentage of the sale price, Purplebricks charges upfront fees, with sellers paying whether or not the property sells. As of 2023, the cost of a basic package starts at around £999 for most of the UK and £1,999 in Greater London, and includes property listings on major platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla, along with valuation services
. Sellers can also opt for upgrades like managed viewings and premium listings, which come at an additional cost. This structure appeals to budget-conscious sellers who wish to avoid the typically higher fees associated with traditional agents, which can range from 1% to 3% of the final sale price.
Cost Savings: Purplebricks offers significant savings for sellers, especially in regions like London and the South East, where traditional agents’ commissions can be costly. Compared to high-street agents, Purplebricks’ flat-fee model can save thousands of pounds
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Convenient Platform: Purplebricks' online dashboard allows sellers to manage listings, schedule viewings, and communicate with buyers directly. This approach provides more control, enabling sellers to adjust viewings and track inquiries in real time
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Broad Market Exposure: Properties listed through Purplebricks appear on popular property sites like Rightmove and Zoopla, ensuring wide visibility. This exposure is valuable for sellers aiming for a quick sale at market price
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Flexible Packages: Purplebricks offers packages that can be tailored to a seller's needs, such as the "Boost" package, which includes professional photography and premium advertising. These upgrades can enhance the listing’s appeal, attracting more buyers in competitive markets
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Upfront Fees and No Sale, No Fee: One major drawback is the fixed upfront fee, which remains non-refundable even if the property does not sell. Traditional estate agents typically offer a “no sale, no fee” guarantee, so sellers pay only upon a successful transaction. This difference has led some customers to feel financially pressured, especially if their property lingers on the market
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Mixed Agent Quality and Support: Purplebricks employs "local property experts" (LPEs) to assist with valuations and listing management. However, reviews indicate that experiences with these agents vary. Some clients praise their LPEs for professionalism, while others report dissatisfaction due to limited availability or perceived lack of local market knowledge. This inconsistency can impact the sale price and the time required to sell a property
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Limited Personal Touch: While Purplebricks’ digital approach appeals to tech-savvy users, some clients miss the personal engagement offered by high-street agents. Traditional agents often provide tailored advice, support throughout negotiations, and in-depth market insights, which may be harder to replicate through an online-only model
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Mixed User Reviews: On Trustpilot and Feefo, Purplebricks receives favorable reviews, with many users appreciating the platform’s ease of use and cost benefits. On Trustpilot, for instance, Purplebricks has an average rating of 4.4 stars from thousands of reviews. However, on other platforms like allAgents, the feedback is more critical, with lower ratings. Users on these sites often cite issues with customer service and valuation accuracy, showing a disparity in experiences depending on individual cases
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When comparing Purplebricks to traditional estate agents, the decision often comes down to cost versus service. For sellers comfortable managing parts of the process themselves, Purplebricks’ digital model and fixed-fee structure offer clear financial benefits. However, sellers who prioritize expert guidance and personalized service may find traditional agents better suited to their needs. Traditional agents typically have intimate knowledge of local markets and a vested interest in selling the property for the best possible price, as their fees are tied to the final sale amount.
Purplebricks can be a cost-effective solution for those looking to save on estate agent fees and who prefer handling aspects of the sale independently. It’s particularly suitable for tech-savvy sellers or those in competitive markets where properties tend to sell quickly. However, if you prioritize hands-on support, in-depth market insights, or a no-sale, no-fee model, a traditional estate agent may be worth the additional cost.
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Disadvantages:
For sellers interested in the hybrid approach Purplebricks offers, a trial might prove beneficial, but a careful review of alternative agents and thorough research is advised to ensure it aligns with individual selling needs and expectations.
