Edwardchase.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website, Edwardchase.co.uk appears to be a legitimate estate agency operating in East London and Essex, specifically Ilford and surrounding areas. The site provides clear information about their services for buying, selling, and letting properties. They highlight their accreditation with industry bodies like ARLA and The Property Ombudsman, which is a strong indicator of credibility.

Here’s an overall review summary:

• Overall Legitimacy: Appears legitimate.
• Ethical Considerations: Generally aligns with ethical business practices; however, as with all property transactions, a thorough review of contracts for interest-based clauses (Riba) is crucial for those adhering to Islamic finance principles.
• Website Clarity: High.
• Information Provided: Comprehensive for an estate agency.
• Key Trust Signals: Accreditation with ARLA and The Property Ombudsman, client testimonials, clear contact information, and privacy policy.
• Areas of Concern: The absence of a direct mention of Sharia-compliant financial advice or options for property transactions. While not a direct flaw, it’s a missing piece for a discerning Muslim consumer.

The website presents itself professionally, detailing their services, showcasing featured properties, and including customer testimonials. They explicitly mention their accreditation, company registration number, and Ombudsman registration, which are all vital trust signals. The presence of a clear “Privacy & Cookie Policy” and “Client Money Protection Certificate” also adds to their transparency. However, for those seeking to engage in property transactions that are entirely Sharia-compliant, the website does not explicitly offer or discuss options for interest-free financing or ethical investment strategies, which is a significant factor to consider. This isn’t a strike against their legitimacy as a standard estate agent, but a note for specific ethical requirements.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org, for software products you can also check Producthunt.

IMPORTANT: We have not personally tested this company’s services. This review is based solely on information provided by the company on their website. For independent, verified user experiences, please refer to trusted sources such as Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

Best Alternatives for Ethical Property Services

When it comes to property, ensuring that transactions align with ethical principles is paramount. While Edward Chase appears to be a standard, legitimate estate agent, for those seeking Sharia-compliant financial solutions in property, direct engagement with Islamic finance providers or Takaful services is essential. Estate agents primarily facilitate the sale or rental of properties; the financing aspect often falls outside their direct purview. Here are alternatives focusing on ethical financial instruments and property search platforms that don’t inherently contradict Islamic principles, focusing on the UK market.

• Al Rayan Bank

  • Key Features: UK’s oldest and largest Sharia-compliant bank. Offers Home Purchase Plans (HPP) as an alternative to conventional mortgages, based on co-ownership and lease agreements.
  • Average Price: Varies based on property value and chosen HPP product.
  • Pros: Fully Sharia-compliant financing, established reputation, transparent processes.
  • Cons: Limited range of products compared to conventional banks, potentially higher initial deposits.

• Gatehouse Bank

  • Key Features: Another prominent Sharia-compliant bank in the UK. Provides home finance products that avoid interest, focusing on ethical and responsible banking.
  • Average Price: Dependent on property and finance structure.
  • Pros: Dedicated to Islamic finance principles, regulated by the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
  • Cons: Product offerings might be less flexible than conventional lenders, requires understanding of specific Islamic finance contracts.

• Islamic Finance Council UK (IFC4UK)

  • Key Features: A non-profit organisation promoting Islamic finance in the UK. While not a direct service provider, they are an excellent resource for understanding Sharia-compliant financial products and identifying ethical financial institutions.
  • Average Price: N/A (information resource).
  • Pros: Comprehensive resource for ethical finance knowledge, helps identify credible providers.
  • Cons: Does not offer direct financial services or property listings.

• Rightmove

  • Key Features: The UK’s largest online property portal. While not Sharia-specific, it’s a neutral platform to find properties for sale or rent, which can then be financed through ethical means.
  • Average Price: N/A (property search engine).
  • Pros: Vast selection of properties across the UK, user-friendly interface, comprehensive search filters.
  • Cons: Does not vet properties for ethical financing compatibility; the onus is on the buyer/renter to secure Sharia-compliant funding.

• Zoopla

  • Key Features: Another major UK property search website. Similar to Rightmove, it aggregates listings from various estate agents, offering a broad view of the market.
  • Average Price: N/A (property search engine).
  • Pros: Extensive property listings, includes local area information and property value estimates.
  • Cons: No inherent ethical filtering for property or financing, requires external ethical financial planning.

• OpenRent

  • Key Features: A direct-to-landlord letting platform that cuts out traditional agents. This can simplify the rental process and potentially reduce fees, allowing for more direct, transparent agreements between landlord and tenant.
  • Average Price: N/A (rental platform, fees apply).
  • Pros: Lower fees for landlords and tenants, direct communication, more control over the rental process.
  • Cons: Less support than a full-service estate agent, requires more proactive engagement from both parties.

• Local Estate Agents with a Focus on Ethics

  

  • Key Features: While not a single entity, seeking out smaller, independent estate agents who might be willing to understand or facilitate Sharia-compliant transactions, or who are known for their community focus, can be beneficial. Some may have relationships with Islamic finance providers.
  • Average Price: Varies by service and agent.
  • Pros: Personalised service, potential for flexibility, may have local knowledge about ethical property ventures.
  • Cons: Requires research to find such agents, not all agents will be familiar with Islamic finance.

Edwardchase.co.uk Review & First Look

When you first land on Edwardchase.co.uk, you’re greeted with a clean, professional layout that immediately establishes its identity as an estate agency. The navigation is straightforward, with clear links for “For Sale,” “To Let,” “Valuation,” and “Contact.” This instant clarity is a huge win for user experience. They prominently display their contact number and offer immediate access to “Tenant Login” and “Landlord Login,” which suggests an integrated system for existing clients.

The homepage features a dynamic search bar, allowing users to quickly look for properties. This is a standard and expected feature for any reputable estate agent website. Below the fold, they present an invitation to “Request a Valuation,” underscoring their core service. The imagery is professional, showcasing attractive property exteriors. What stands out is the clear statement about their location and areas covered: “East London’s leading real estate agency in Ilford, dealing with properties for sale and letting homes throughout the Borough.” This geographical specificity is crucial for local businesses.

Furthermore, Edward Chase highlights their experience, stating “a combined 25 years of experience in property sales and lettings.” They also boast full accreditation by “ARLA & The Property Ombudsman,” which are vital trust signals in the UK property market. ARLA Propertymark (now just Propertymark) is a professional body for letting agents, ensuring high standards and protection for clients. The Property Ombudsman is an independent body that resolves disputes between consumers and property firms. These accreditations mean that Edward Chase adheres to certain professional standards and has a clear process for handling complaints, providing a layer of consumer protection that many will appreciate.

Initial Impressions: Usability and Trust Signals

The usability of Edwardchase.co.uk is robust. The website is intuitive, and information is logically organised. Key trust signals are front and centre, including:

• Contact Information: Prominently displayed phone numbers and email addresses (including dedicated ones for maintenance and data protection).
• Physical Address: A clear physical address at “29A Goodmayes Road, Ilford, Essex, IG3 9UH” enhances legitimacy.
• Accreditations: Mentioning ARLA and The Property Ombudsman is a significant trust builder.
• Company Registration: The company registration number (10683726) is provided, allowing for independent verification.
• Client Money Protection Certificate: A direct link to their CMP certificate is available, which is essential for letting agents handling client funds. This means your money is protected if the agency goes bust.
• Privacy & Cookie Policy: A downloadable PDF outlines their data handling practices, demonstrating compliance with data protection regulations.

This level of transparency is commendable and indicates a serious, professional operation.

Edwardchase.co.uk Features

Edwardchase.co.uk is built to serve both property buyers/tenants and sellers/landlords in the East London and Essex region. The website integrates a range of features designed to streamline the property transaction process. From comprehensive property listings to valuation services and client portals, the platform aims to be a one-stop shop for local real estate needs.

Property Search and Listings

The core functionality of any estate agency website is its property search. Edwardchase.co.uk delivers with a clear search bar that allows users to filter by “For Sale” or “To Let.” Once a category is selected, you can browse listings that include essential details such as:

• Number of Bedrooms, Bathrooms, and Receptions: Standard icons make it easy to grasp key property specifications at a glance.
• Monthly Rental or Guide Price: Clearly stated pricing helps users quickly assess affordability.
• Detailed Descriptions: Each property has a “Read More” option leading to a full page with extended descriptions, often highlighting unique selling points and local amenities.
• High-Quality Images: Properties are showcased with multiple images, providing a visual tour of the interior and exterior. For example, a “Two-bedroom House Available in Redbridge” would have several high-resolution photos.
• Location Information: Addresses are provided, giving prospective buyers/tenants a clear idea of the property’s whereabouts.

Valuation Services

A significant feature for potential sellers and landlords is the “Request a Valuation” service. This is prominently advertised on the homepage, with multiple calls to action. They offer a “FREE Property Valuation” based on their “expertise and knowledge in the local area.” This service is crucial for individuals looking to put their property on the market, as an accurate valuation is the first step in a successful sale or let. The online form makes it convenient for users to submit their details and get the process started.

Client Portals: Tenant and Landlord Login

Edwardchase.co.uk provides dedicated portals for “Tenant Login” and “Landlord Login,” powered by Expert Agent. These portals are likely designed to offer:

• For Tenants: Access to rental agreements, payment history, and potentially a platform to report maintenance issues (which is also linked directly via Fixflo).
• For Landlords: Overview of their property portfolio, rental income statements, updates on viewings, and communication tools with the agency and tenants.

These logins enhance convenience and transparency for existing clients, allowing them to manage their affairs efficiently. Bowleys.co.uk Review

Maintenance Reporting System

A dedicated “Maintenance” link leads to an external platform (edward-chase.fixflo.com). Fixflo is a widely used online repair reporting system for property managers and tenants. This shows a commitment to efficient property management post-letting, ensuring that issues are reported and addressed systematically. This feature is particularly valuable for tenants who need a quick and easy way to log problems and for landlords who want a streamlined process for managing repairs.

Edwardchase.co.uk Pros & Cons

Like any service, Edwardchase.co.uk has its strengths and areas where it might not fully meet the needs of every potential client, particularly those with specific ethical or financial considerations. Understanding these points is crucial for making an informed decision.

Edwardchase.co.uk Pros

Edwardchase.co.uk offers several compelling advantages that make it a strong contender in the East London and Essex property market.

• Strong Local Expertise: They explicitly state “combined 25 years of experience in property sales and lettings” and cover specific areas like Ilford, Goodmayes, Seven Kings, and Romford. This deep local knowledge is invaluable for accurate valuations and understanding market trends. Their focus on East London makes them specialists rather than generalists.
• Professional Accreditations: Being “fully accredited by several leading industry bodies such as ARLA & The Property Ombudsman” is a significant plus. These accreditations mean they adhere to strict professional standards, provide client money protection, and offer an independent redress scheme in case of disputes. This gives clients peace of mind.
• Transparent Information: The website provides clear contact details, a physical address, company registration number (10683726), and Ombudsman registration (D14509-0). This level of transparency is excellent and builds trust. They also link directly to their “Privacy & Cookie Policy” and “Client Money Protection Certificate,” demonstrating compliance and openness.
• User-Friendly Website: The site is well-designed, easy to navigate, and offers intuitive search functions. Property listings are detailed with multiple high-quality images, and calls to action (like “Request a Valuation”) are clear and prominent.
• Positive Customer Testimonials: The “What Our Customers Say” section features genuine-looking reviews from “Vick & Bina,” “Lisa. M,” and “Andrew. D,” praising their professionalism, knowledge, and personal approach. While testimonials can be curated, they offer a glimpse into client satisfaction.
• Integrated Client Portals: The “Tenant Login” and “Landlord Login” powered by Expert Agent, along with the Fixflo maintenance system, indicate a modern approach to client management, offering convenience and efficiency post-transaction.

Edwardchase.co.uk Cons

While Edwardchase.co.uk is a well-structured and legitimate estate agent, there are specific areas where it falls short, especially for a segment of the population with particular ethical requirements.

• Lack of Explicit Sharia-Compliant Options: This is the primary concern from an Islamic ethical standpoint. The website does not mention or offer any information regarding Sharia-compliant financing options (e.g., Islamic mortgages/Home Purchase Plans) or ethical property investments. For individuals who require their financial dealings to be free from interest (Riba) and other impermissible elements, this is a significant oversight. While an estate agent’s primary role isn’t financing, a truly comprehensive or ethically conscious service might at least provide resources or referrals.
• Standard Business Model: Edward Chase operates as a conventional estate agency. This means their processes, while professional, are built around the standard UK property market practices, which often involve interest-based loans for purchases. There’s no indication of any specialized services or understanding for clients who wish to avoid such conventional financial structures.
• Dependence on External Software: While the use of Expert Agent for client logins and Fixflo for maintenance is efficient, it means certain parts of the user experience are dependent on third-party systems. This is common practice, but it means Edward Chase has less direct control over the interface and functionality of those specific services.
• Regional Focus: While a pro for local expertise, it’s a con for those looking for property services outside of East London and Essex. Edward Chase is clearly focused on its specific geographical niche.

In summary, Edwardchase.co.uk is a highly competent and transparent estate agent for the general market. However, for those specifically seeking property services that align with Islamic ethical financial principles, the absence of explicit Sharia-compliant options means a separate search for ethical financing will be necessary.

Edwardchase.co.uk Alternatives

When looking for property services in the UK, especially with specific ethical considerations, it’s wise to explore a range of alternatives. While Edwardchase.co.uk is a solid local estate agent, the broader market offers various options, including those focused on ethical finance or different service models.

Traditional UK Estate Agents

For those seeking a broad selection of properties and standard services, these are major players with extensive reach:

• Savills

  • Overview: A global real estate services provider, known for its high-end properties and comprehensive services across residential, commercial, and rural sectors.
  • Features: Extensive property listings, professional valuations, property management, and investment advice.
  • Pros: Wide reach, reputable, strong market insights, professional service.
  • Cons: Often deals with higher-value properties, may have higher fees compared to local agencies.

• Hamptons International

  • Overview: Another well-established UK estate agent, particularly strong in London and the South East, offering sales, lettings, and property management.
  • Features: Luxury property listings, international property sales, relocation services, bespoke client approach.
  • Pros: Strong presence in prime locations, excellent customer service, international network.
  • Cons: Primarily focused on the mid-to-high end of the market, potentially less competitive fees for standard properties.

Online/Hybrid Estate Agents

These platforms leverage technology to offer potentially lower fees by reducing physical office overheads. Pro-scaffolding.co.uk Review

• Purplebricks

  • Overview: One of the pioneers of the online estate agency model in the UK, offering a fixed fee for selling properties.
  • Features: Online valuations, local property experts, professional photography, virtual viewings.
  • Pros: Transparent fixed fees, potential cost savings for sellers, 24/7 online access to property progress.
  • Cons: Less traditional hand-holding, some services require additional fees, varied local expert quality.

• Strike

  • Overview: An online estate agent offering to sell properties for free, with optional paid-for services like accompanied viewings.
  • Features: Free selling service, online property management portal, professional support for negotiations.
  • Pros: Significantly lower costs for sellers, simple process, innovative model.
  • Cons: Limited physical presence, extra services cost, less suitable for those who prefer full-service traditional agents.

Ethical/Sharia-Compliant Financial Providers (Not Estate Agents, but Crucial for Ethical Transactions)

These are not estate agents but are essential resources for those seeking to engage in ethical property transactions in the UK, as they provide the crucial financing component.

• Al Rayan Bank

  • Overview: As mentioned earlier, a leading Sharia-compliant bank in the UK, offering Home Purchase Plans (HPPs) as an alternative to conventional mortgages.
  • Features: Ethical property finance based on co-ownership (Musharaka) and leasing (Ijara), compliant with Islamic principles.
  • Pros: Full Sharia compliance, regulated, established reputation.
  • Cons: Different finance structure requiring understanding, potentially higher initial deposits.
• Gatehouse Bank

  • Overview: Another UK-based Sharia-compliant bank providing ethical home finance and savings products.
  • Features: Islamic home finance, commercial property finance, ethical investment opportunities.
  • Pros: Adherence to Islamic finance, strong regulatory oversight, focus on responsible banking.
  • Cons: Product range may be narrower than conventional banks, specific contractual agreements to understand.

How to Cancel Edwardchase.co.uk Subscription

While Edwardchase.co.uk doesn’t appear to offer a traditional “subscription” model in the way a software service might, clients, particularly landlords and tenants, would have ongoing agreements for services like property management or tenancy agreements. Cancelling these services involves specific contractual obligations and communication with the agency. It’s crucial to review your signed agreements.

Cancelling a Letting Management Agreement (for Landlords)

If you are a landlord using Edward Chase for property management, your contract will specify the notice period required for termination.

1. Review Your Contract: The first step is always to meticulously read your management agreement. This document will outline the terms of termination, including the notice period (e.g., 1, 2, or 3 months) and any potential early termination fees.
2. Provide Written Notice: You’ll typically need to provide formal written notice to Edward Chase, usually via email or registered post. Ensure you send it to the appropriate contact email (e.g., [email protected] or a specific property management email if provided in your contract). Clearly state your intention to terminate the agreement and the effective date.
3. Discuss Handover: Once notice is given, contact Edward Chase to discuss the handover process. This includes transferring tenant details, lease agreements, deposit information, and any ongoing maintenance issues. Ensure all financial accounts are settled.
4. Confirm Termination: Request written confirmation from Edward Chase that your agreement has been terminated and all outstanding matters have been resolved. Keep all correspondence for your records.

Ending a Tenancy Agreement (for Tenants)

As a tenant, your ability to “cancel” or end your agreement with Edward Chase (as your letting agent) is tied to your tenancy agreement with the landlord.

1. Check Your Tenancy Agreement: This legally binding document will specify your fixed term, break clauses (if any), and the required notice period for leaving the property (e.g., one month).
2. Provide Proper Notice: If you are within a fixed term, you generally cannot end the tenancy early unless there is a break clause or a mutual agreement with the landlord. If you are in a periodic tenancy (rolling monthly/weekly), you usually need to give written notice, typically one month for a monthly tenancy, ending on a rent due date. Send this to Edward Chase (as the agent) and ideally to your landlord as well.
3. Arrange Checkout: Edward Chase will likely arrange a checkout inspection to assess the property’s condition against the initial inventory report. Ensure the property is clean and in good order to avoid deposit deductions.
4. Return Keys: Keys must be returned as per their instructions on or before the end date of your tenancy.
5. Deposit Return: Your deposit will be protected in a scheme (like DPS, TDS, MyDeposits). After the checkout, Edward Chase or the landlord will initiate the return of your deposit, minus any agreed-upon deductions for damages or arrears.

For precise instructions, always refer to your specific signed agreements with Edward Chase Estate Agents.

How to Cancel Edwardchase.co.uk Free Trial

Edwardchase.co.uk is an estate agency, and as such, it doesn’t offer “free trials” in the traditional sense of a software or service subscription. Their primary services are property sales, lettings, and valuations. While they offer a “Free Valuation,” this is a one-off service to assess a property’s market value, not a trial that requires cancellation. Hydebuilders.co.uk Review

Understanding the “Free Valuation”

The “Free Valuation” service offered by Edward Chase is a consultation where their property specialists assess your home and provide an estimated market price. It’s designed to attract potential sellers or landlords and is not a recurring service or a trial that automatically converts into a paid plan.

• No Automatic Charges: You will not be charged for a free valuation. There’s no credit card information taken for this specific service that could lead to an automatic subscription.
• No Cancellation Needed: Since it’s a one-time, non-binding service, there’s no “cancellation” process required once the valuation has taken place or if you decide not to proceed after requesting one. You simply don’t engage further with their sales or letting services if you choose not to.

If You’ve Engaged Beyond a Free Valuation

If your interaction with Edwardchase.co.uk has moved beyond just a free valuation and you have signed a mandate to sell or let your property, or a tenancy agreement:

• Selling Your Property: If you’ve signed an agency agreement to sell your property, this contract will outline the terms for withdrawal or termination. There may be withdrawal fees if you decide not to sell, or if you switch to another agent during the contracted period. You would need to provide formal written notice as per the terms of your agreement.
• Letting Your Property: For landlords, the terms for withdrawing your property from the market or terminating a management agreement would be in your specific contract with Edward Chase, as detailed in the “How to Cancel Edwardchase.co.uk Subscription” section.
• Renting a Property: As a tenant, your commitment is tied to your tenancy agreement. You can only end this according to the terms of your lease (e.g., at the end of a fixed term, via a break clause, or by mutual agreement).

In essence, Edwardchase.co.uk operates on a service-based model rather than a subscription-based one with trials. Any commitments are laid out in formal agreements, and their termination procedures are defined within those documents.

Edwardchase.co.uk Pricing

Edwardchase.co.uk, as a traditional estate agency, operates on a commission or fixed-fee basis for its core services rather than a subscription model with tiered pricing. Their website does not explicitly list a price guide for selling or letting services, which is common practice for estate agents, as fees can vary based on property type, value, and the specific services required.

Sales Fees (for Sellers)

For selling a property, estate agents typically charge a percentage of the final sale price, or sometimes a fixed fee.

• Percentage-Based Fees: This is the most common model. Fees can range anywhere from 0.75% to 3% of the sale price, plus VAT. The exact percentage often depends on whether you opt for a sole agency agreement (where Edward Chase is the only agent for a set period) or a multi-agency agreement (where multiple agents compete to sell your property, often at a higher percentage).
  • Example: If a property sells for £300,000 and the fee is 1.5% + VAT, the fee would be £4,500 + 20% VAT (£900) = £5,400.
• Fixed Fees: Some agents offer a fixed fee, regardless of the sale price. This is less common for traditional high-street agents but might be an option.
  • Example: A fixed fee of £2,000 to £5,000 + VAT.

Edward Chase would likely discuss their specific fee structure during the initial valuation consultation. This initial “Free Valuation” is the perfect opportunity for potential sellers to enquire about the exact costs involved.

Letting Fees (for Landlords)

For landlords, fees are generally split into two main categories: “Let Only” and “Full Management.”

• Let Only Service: This service typically includes marketing the property, finding a tenant, conducting referencing, drawing up the tenancy agreement, and collecting the first month’s rent and deposit. The fee for this is often:
  • A one-off fee equivalent to 1 to 2 weeks’ rent, plus VAT.
  • A flat fee, often ranging from £500 to £1,000, plus VAT.
• Full Management Service: This comprehensive service includes everything in “Let Only,” plus ongoing rent collection, property maintenance management (utilizing systems like Fixflo, as seen on their site), regular property inspections, legal compliance, and handling tenant queries throughout the tenancy. The fee for this is usually:
  • An initial set-up fee (similar to “Let Only”), and then a monthly percentage of the collected rent, typically ranging from 10% to 15%, plus VAT.
  • Example: For a property rented at £1,500 per month, a 12% management fee would be £180 + 20% VAT (£36) = £216 per month.

Fees for Tenants

Since the Tenant Fees Act 2019 came into force in England, most fees charged directly to tenants by letting agents are banned. Tenants can now only be charged for:

• Rent
• Refundable Tenancy Deposit: Capped at five weeks’ rent (or six weeks if annual rent is £50,000 or more).
• Refundable Holding Deposit: Capped at one week’s rent.
• Payments to Change the Tenancy: Capped at £50 (or reasonable costs if higher).
• Payments for Early Termination: If the tenant breaks the contract early.
• Payments for Utilities, Council Tax, TV Licence, Communication Services.
• Default Fees: For late payment of rent (after 14 days, capped at 3% above BoE base rate) and replacement of lost keys.

Edward Chase’s Client Money Protection Certificate and Ombudsman registration further assure tenants that their financial interactions will be handled according to regulated standards.

In summary, while Edwardchase.co.uk doesn’t publicise fixed prices on its site, this is standard industry practice. Prospective clients are encouraged to contact them directly for a personalized quote, especially during a free valuation consultation. Epicaccessories.co.uk Review

Edwardchase.co.uk vs. Online Estate Agents

When considering Edwardchase.co.uk, a traditional high-street estate agent, it’s insightful to compare its model against the rise of online and hybrid estate agents. These different approaches to selling and letting property offer distinct advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, service level, and technology integration.

Edwardchase.co.uk (Traditional High-Street Model)

• Physical Presence: Edward Chase has a physical office in Ilford (29A Goodmayes Road). This offers a tangible point of contact, walk-in consultations, and a local presence that can be reassuring for some clients.
• Local Expertise: As highlighted on their website, they have “combined 25 years of experience” and cover specific East London and Essex areas extensively. This deep local knowledge of property values, market trends, and buyer demographics is a significant advantage. They often know local amenities, schools, and transport links intimately.
• Full-Service Approach: Traditional agents typically provide a comprehensive service from start to finish. This includes professional photography, floor plans, extensive marketing across major portals (Rightmove, Zoopla), accompanied viewings, negotiation, sales progression (chasing solicitors, managing chains), and full property management for lettings. They act as a central point of contact.
• Commission-Based Fees: Fees are typically a percentage of the sale price (for sales) or a monthly percentage of rent (for lettings management), plus an upfront setup fee. This means the agent is incentivised to achieve the highest possible price for your property.
• Personalised Service: Clients often receive a dedicated agent or team, leading to a more personal relationship and tailored advice.

Online/Hybrid Estate Agents (e.g., Purplebricks, Strike)

• Digital-First Approach: These agents operate primarily online, often with no physical high-street branches (or very few). Their operations are streamlined through technology.
• Fixed Fees or Low Costs: Their main selling point is cost savings. Online agents typically charge a fixed fee (e.g., £999 for selling, regardless of property value) rather than a percentage commission. Some, like Strike, even offer a free core service for selling, with optional paid upgrades.
• Reduced Human Interaction: While they often provide local property experts, the level of direct, in-person interaction can be less than with traditional agents. Many tasks are handled online via portals or phone calls.
• Shared Responsibilities: For sellers, tasks like conducting viewings might fall to the homeowner unless an extra fee is paid for accompanied viewings. For landlords, the level of management support can vary significantly based on the package chosen.
• Broader Reach (Digital): While they might not have physical offices everywhere, their digital marketing reach is nationwide through major property portals.

Key Differences and Who Benefits

1. Cost: Online agents are generally cheaper upfront due to fixed fees. Traditional agents like Edward Chase might seem more expensive with commission-based fees, but their comprehensive service can save time and stress, and their incentive to achieve a higher sale price might offset the fee.
2. Service Level: Edward Chase offers a full, hands-on service with a local presence. Online agents offer varying levels of service, often requiring more self-management from the client.
3. Local Expertise vs. Scale: Edward Chase excels in deep local market knowledge. Online agents have broader geographical reach but might rely on local “experts” who cover larger territories.
4. Sales Progression: Traditional agents like Edward Chase often provide robust sales progression support, actively chasing solicitors and managing the chain to ensure a smooth transaction. This is a critical service that can significantly reduce stress. Online agents might offer less support in this area, or charge extra for it.

For someone in East London valuing local expertise, a comprehensive service, and a personal touch, Edwardchase.co.uk presents a strong option. For those comfortable with more self-management and prioritising cost savings, online agents like Purplebricks or Strike might be more appealing, provided they align with ethical preferences.

FAQ

What is Edwardchase.co.uk?

Edwardchase.co.uk is the official website for Edward Chase Estate Agents, an independent real estate company based in Ilford, East London, specialising in property sales and lettings across East London and Essex.

Is Edwardchase.co.uk a legitimate estate agency?

Yes, Edwardchase.co.uk appears to be a legitimate estate agency. They clearly display their physical address, contact details, company registration number (10683726), and accreditations with ARLA and The Property Ombudsman, all of which are strong indicators of legitimacy.

What services does Edwardchase.co.uk offer?

Edwardchase.co.uk offers services for selling properties, letting properties (for landlords and tenants), property valuations, and property management, particularly focusing on residential properties in East London and Essex.

Does Edwardchase.co.uk offer free property valuations?

Yes, Edwardchase.co.uk prominently advertises and offers a “FREE Property Valuation” service for homeowners looking to sell or let their property.

How do I contact Edwardchase.co.uk?

You can contact Edwardchase.co.uk via phone at 0208 995 9744, by email at [email protected], [email protected], or [email protected], or by visiting their office at 29A Goodmayes Road, Ilford, Essex, IG3 9UH.

Is Edwardchase.co.uk regulated?

Yes, Edwardchase.co.uk states they are “fully accredited by several leading industry bodies such as ARLA & The Property Ombudsman,” indicating they adhere to professional standards and provide an independent redress scheme for disputes.

What is ARLA Propertymark accreditation?

ARLA Propertymark (now just Propertymark) is a professional body for letting agents, ensuring high standards and protecting clients’ money through a Client Money Protection (CMP) scheme. Edward Chase is accredited, and a link to their CMP certificate is available on their website.

What is The Property Ombudsman?

The Property Ombudsman (TPO) is an independent body that provides a free, impartial, and independent service for the resolution of disputes between consumers and property firms in the UK. Edward Chase’s registration with TPO provides a mechanism for dispute resolution. Rattanfurnitureset.co.uk Review

Does Edwardchase.co.uk have client login portals?

Yes, Edwardchase.co.uk provides separate login portals for “Tenant Login” and “Landlord Login,” powered by Expert Agent, likely for managing tenancy details, payments, and property information.

How can I report maintenance issues for a property managed by Edward Chase?

Edwardchase.co.uk provides a dedicated “Maintenance” link on their website, which directs to an external platform (edward-chase.fixflo.com), allowing tenants to report repair and maintenance issues online.

Does Edwardchase.co.uk offer Sharia-compliant property finance?

Based on the website, Edwardchase.co.uk does not explicitly mention or offer Sharia-compliant property finance options. Individuals seeking interest-free financing for property transactions would need to explore dedicated Islamic banks or financial institutions.

Are there fees for tenants using Edwardchase.co.uk?

Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019 in England, most fees to tenants are banned. Tenants can typically only be charged for rent, a refundable tenancy deposit, a refundable holding deposit, payments to change the tenancy, payments for early termination, and specific default fees. Edward Chase would adhere to these regulations.

How do I give notice to end my tenancy managed by Edwardchase.co.uk?

You should refer to your specific tenancy agreement for the required notice period and method (usually written notice, often one month for monthly tenancies, ending on a rent due date). Contact Edward Chase directly to confirm the process.

What areas does Edwardchase.co.uk cover?

Edwardchase.co.uk focuses on East London and Essex, specifically mentioning areas such as Ilford, Goodmayes, Seven Kings, Newbury Park, Barkingside, Clayhall, Redbridge, Chigwell, Romford, Havering, and Barking & Dagenham.

Can I sell my property with Edwardchase.co.uk?

Yes, Edwardchase.co.uk provides services for selling properties. You can request a free valuation of your home on their website to begin the process.

What are the typical fees for selling a property with Edwardchase.co.uk?

Edwardchase.co.uk does not publish its fees on the website, which is common for traditional estate agents. Fees are typically a percentage of the final sale price (e.g., 0.75% to 3% plus VAT) or a fixed fee, which would be discussed during your valuation.

What are the typical fees for landlords using Edwardchase.co.uk?

For landlords, fees vary based on the service level (e.g., “Let Only” or “Full Management”). “Let Only” services might have a one-off fee, while “Full Management” usually includes an initial setup fee plus a monthly percentage of the collected rent (e.g., 10% to 15% plus VAT).

How long does a free valuation take with Edwardchase.co.uk?

The website doesn’t specify the duration of the valuation itself, but it can be requested quickly online, and their specialists will arrange an appointment to assess your property. Fdrecruit.co.uk Review

Does Edwardchase.co.uk use external software for its services?

Yes, Edwardchase.co.uk states that its client login portals are “Powered by Expert Agent Estate Agent Software” and its maintenance system is via Fixflo, indicating the use of reputable third-party tools for efficiency.

What information is included in Edwardchase.co.uk property listings?

Property listings on Edwardchase.co.uk typically include the monthly rental or guide price, number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and reception rooms, detailed descriptions, and multiple high-quality images of the property.