Howesestates.co.uk Review

Based on looking at the website Howesestates.co.uk, it appears to be a legitimate residential letting business operating in Okehampton, United Kingdom. They seem to focus on property management, lettings, and providing advice for both landlords and tenants. The site offers various sections detailing their services, team, customer testimonials, and an option for property valuations.

Here’s an overall review summary:

• Website Professionalism: The site is well-structured and provides clear navigation.
• Information Clarity: Key information regarding services, fees, and processes is readily available.
• Transparency: Sections like “Landlord Fees” and “Permitted Payments” indicate a commitment to transparency.
• Customer Testimonials: The inclusion of numerous customer reviews builds trust.
• Contact Information: A clear contact section and phone number are provided.
• Mobile App Availability: They offer dedicated mobile apps, enhancing accessibility.
• Ethical Considerations: Property letting and management, when conducted fairly and transparently, align with ethical business practices. The focus on “landlords are protected and kept up to date with the ever-changing regulations” is a positive sign of responsible operation.

Howes Estates, through its Pure Lettings brand, seems to have a solid online presence showcasing their local expertise and a focus on customer satisfaction. The emphasis on regulatory compliance in the lettings industry is particularly reassuring, as it indicates a business that aims to operate within established legal and ethical frameworks. This approach is vital in any business dealing with people’s homes and finances, ensuring fairness and protecting all parties involved.

Here are some alternatives to consider for property management services, focusing on well-regarded agencies or platforms in the UK that also uphold ethical business standards:

• Rightmove: A leading property portal in the UK, Rightmove allows you to search for properties to let and connects you with various estate and letting agents. It’s a comprehensive platform for browsing, but the actual property management and ethical conduct fall to the individual agencies listed.
  • Key Features: Extensive property listings, agent directory, market insights.
  • Average Price: Varies based on the agent chosen; listing is free for agents.
  • Pros: Vast selection, user-friendly interface, market data.
  • Cons: Not a direct service provider, relies on third-party agents.
• Zoopla: Another major UK property website, Zoopla offers property listings for sale and rent, valuations, and insights into the property market. Similar to Rightmove, it acts as a directory to connect users with agents.
  • Key Features: Property search, valuation tools, local market trends, agent reviews.
  • Average Price: Depends on the chosen agent’s fees.
  • Pros: Detailed property information, strong market presence, valuation tools.
  • Cons: Relies on third-party agents for actual services, can be overwhelming with options.
• OpenRent: OpenRent is a popular online letting agent that allows landlords to list properties and manage tenancies directly, often at a lower cost than traditional high-street agents. They focus on transparency and ease of use.
  • Key Features: Online listing, tenant referencing, tenancy agreement creation, deposit protection.
  • Average Price: From £49 for basic listing to around £200 for full management assistance.
  • Pros: Cost-effective, direct landlord control, clear pricing.
  • Cons: Requires more landlord involvement, less hands-on support compared to full-service agents.
• ARLA Propertymark: While not a direct service provider, ARLA Propertymark is a professional body for letting agents in the UK. Finding an agent accredited by ARLA ensures they adhere to strict professional standards and codes of conduct, which is a strong indicator of ethical practice.
  • Key Features: Professional accreditation, client money protection, regulatory compliance.
  • Average Price: No direct fees; fees are charged by ARLA-approved agents.
  • Pros: Ensures high standards, consumer protection, reputable agents.
  • Cons: Not a service itself, requires finding an accredited agent.
• Purplebricks: Purplebricks is an online estate agent offering a hybrid model for property sales and lettings. They combine online tools with local property experts.
  • Key Features: Online platform, local property experts, valuation services, tenancy setup.
  • Average Price: Fixed fees, often starting from £799 for letting services.
  • Pros: Fixed fees can be cost-effective for landlords, hybrid approach.
  • Cons: Mixed reviews on customer service, might not suit those preferring traditional agent interaction.
• Hunters Estate Agents: A well-established traditional estate agency chain across the UK with a strong local presence. They offer comprehensive letting and property management services.
  • Key Features: Full property management, local market knowledge, dedicated teams.
  • Average Price: Varies based on location and service level (e.g., 10-15% of monthly rent for full management).
  • Pros: Hands-on support, strong local knowledge, established reputation.
  • Cons: Generally higher fees than online-only alternatives, services can vary by branch.
• Savills: For higher-end properties or those seeking premium services, Savills is a global real estate firm with a significant presence in the UK. They offer bespoke letting and property management services.
  • Key Features: Premium service, extensive global network, expert advice, tailored management.
  • Average Price: Higher fees, often reflecting the premium nature of their services and properties.
  • Pros: Exceptional service quality, access to high-net-worth tenants/landlords, deep market expertise.
  • Cons: Significantly more expensive, might be overkill for standard residential properties.

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Howesestates.co.uk Review & First Look

When you first land on Howesestates.co.uk, you’re greeted with a clean, professional, and relatively straightforward design. This isn’t some flashy, over-the-top site; it’s built for purpose, which is exactly what you want from a property services provider. The layout immediately conveys their core business: residential lettings and property management, particularly through their “Pure Lettings” brand in Okehampton.

Initial Impressions of the Homepage

The homepage efficiently directs users to key areas. You’ve got immediate access to “Properties to Let,” “Request a FREE valuation,” and testimonials. This is smart. As Tim Ferriss might say, they’re optimising for the most valuable actions a potential client would take. It’s not cluttered with unnecessary fluff; it’s about getting down to business. The clear navigation menu at the top—Home, About Us, Our Team, Why Use Us, Customer Reviews, Landlords, Lettings, Contact Us, News, Login—provides a structured pathway to explore their offerings in depth.

Branding and Association with “Pure Lettings”

It’s clear that Howes Estates has strategically integrated “Pure Lettings” into their brand identity. The text mentions: “We were lucky to procure the well-respected independent residential letting business, Pure Lettings, Okehampton in 2017.” This acquisition narrative adds credibility and suggests a history of trusted service being brought under a new banner. It’s a smart move to leverage an existing reputable name, ensuring continuity and trust for former and new clients alike. The continuous growth “from strength to strength” under the guidance of Vickie and the team further reinforces a positive outlook.

Geographical Focus

The website explicitly states their base in Okehampton. This local focus is a critical advantage for an estate agent. Local knowledge, a dedicated team “based in Okehampton town,” and an understanding of the specific market dynamics in Devon are invaluable. For landlords and tenants in the region, knowing they’re dealing with a truly local entity can foster greater trust and more effective service delivery compared to larger, more impersonal national chains. This specialised local presence often means quicker responses and more tailored advice.

Howesestates.co.uk Features

Howesestates.co.uk isn’t just a static brochure site; it offers several functional features designed to assist both landlords and tenants. These features streamline processes and provide valuable information, demonstrating a clear effort to provide practical utility beyond just advertising properties. Darkpark.co.uk Review

Property Search and Listings

The “Properties to Let” section is a central feature, allowing prospective tenants to browse available rental properties. While the provided text doesn’t detail the search filters, the mere presence of this section is fundamental for a lettings agency. A well-implemented property search typically includes options to filter by price, number of bedrooms, property type, and location, making the user experience efficient. The ability to “View Properties” directly from the homepage is a crucial call to action.

Online Valuation Request

For landlords, the “Click here to request a FREE valuation” and “Get Your Free Valuation” buttons are prominent. This feature is a significant lead-generation tool and a crucial service for potential clients. Offering a free, no-obligation valuation is standard practice in the industry, and its clear placement suggests they are actively seeking new landlord clients. This service helps landlords understand their property’s rental potential in the current market, which is the first step for many considering letting.

Mobile Application

A standout feature is the availability of dedicated mobile applications: “Download Pure Lettings Devon Ltd App from App Store / Google Play.” In today’s mobile-first world, having an app is a huge convenience. It allows users to access property listings, manage their accounts, and communicate with the agency on the go. This indicates a forward-thinking approach and an investment in user accessibility, which sets them apart from agencies that only offer a desktop experience.

Client Login Portal

The “Login” option in the main navigation suggests a client portal. This is a vital feature for existing landlords and possibly tenants to manage their accounts. A well-designed portal typically allows landlords to view statements, track property maintenance, and monitor tenancy details. For tenants, it might offer options to report repairs or view tenancy agreements. This self-service capability reduces administrative burden on the agency and provides convenience to clients.

Howesestates.co.uk Pros & Cons

Every service, no matter how good, has its strengths and weaknesses. It’s about weighing them up. For Howesestates.co.uk, based on the available information, there’s a lot to like, but also a few areas where they could potentially enhance their online presence. Qubestor.co.uk Review

Pros of Howesestates.co.uk

• Strong Local Presence and Expertise: Their explicit focus on Okehampton and Devon, coupled with a dedicated local team, is a significant advantage. This suggests in-depth knowledge of the local property market, rental values, and community nuances. Local expertise often translates to more accurate valuations and quicker tenant placements.
• Clear and Transparent Information: The website includes dedicated pages for “Landlord Fees” and “Permitted Payments.” This level of transparency upfront is excellent. It helps potential clients understand the costs involved without having to dig or make an inquiry, building trust from the outset.
• Positive Customer Testimonials: The homepage prominently features multiple positive testimonials from satisfied clients. These real-world endorsements, often mentioning names like “Sandie & Audrey,” “Melissa & Farley,” and “Mr & Mrs Buchan,” add significant credibility and social proof, making the service feel reliable and trustworthy.
• Mobile App Availability: The provision of mobile apps for both iOS and Android demonstrates a commitment to modern convenience and accessibility. In an age where most people access information on their phones, a dedicated app enhances the user experience and makes it easier for clients to engage with the agency.
• Comprehensive Service Offering: The range of services, including free valuations, property management, and advice for both landlords and tenants, shows they offer a full spectrum of letting solutions. This indicates a holistic approach to their clients’ needs.
• Professional Website Design: The website is clean, easy to navigate, and professional. It prioritises functionality and clarity over flashy aesthetics, which is ideal for a service-oriented business. Key calls to action are strategically placed.
• Regulatory Awareness: The mention of “ensuring that landlords are protected and kept up to date with the ever-changing regulations within the lettings industry” highlights a proactive approach to compliance, which is crucial in the heavily regulated property sector. This commitment protects both landlords and tenants.

Cons of Howesestates.co.uk

• Limited Online Property Detail on Homepage: While there’s a “Properties to Let” section, the homepage text doesn’t give a sense of how detailed the online listings are, or if they offer virtual tours, high-quality photos, or comprehensive descriptions. More advanced search and viewing options are becoming standard.
• Lack of Immediate Pricing on Homepage (Beyond Fees): While “Landlord Fees” are mentioned, a quick overview of what those fees entail, or a general pricing structure on the homepage itself, could be beneficial. Users often prefer to see pricing tiers or examples before clicking through to dedicated pages.
• No Live Chat or Instant Support: The absence of a live chat feature or direct messaging option on the homepage means users must rely on phone calls or email for immediate queries. In today’s fast-paced environment, instant support can be a differentiator.
• Geographical Limitation (Implicit): While local focus is a pro, it also means their services are primarily for the Okehampton and surrounding Devon areas. This isn’t a con for their target market, but it’s a limitation for those outside this specific region looking for a property agency.
• News/Blog Section Content Not Immediately Evident: While there’s a “News” link, the homepage doesn’t offer a glimpse into the type of content they publish. A blog with regular, informative articles on property trends, legal updates, or local market insights could further establish their authority and engage visitors.
• Dependence on External Email for EPC Enquiries: The link “Find out more” for EPCs leads to a mailto: link. While it offers a direct contact, a dedicated page with more information about EPCs and a form for inquiries might offer a more streamlined experience for users who prefer not to open their email client.

Howesestates.co.uk Alternatives

When you’re looking for property services, especially in the UK, it’s always smart to have a few options up your sleeve. Howesestates.co.uk focuses on a specific region and service model. If you’re based elsewhere, or looking for a slightly different approach, here are some robust alternatives that offer property management, letting services, or platforms to facilitate property transactions, all striving for ethical operations in the sector.

• Rightmove:
  • Focus: The largest online property portal in the UK.
  • How it compares: Unlike Howes Estates which is a direct agency, Rightmove is a marketplace. It allows you to search for properties listed by thousands of agents, including local ones. It’s essential for discovering the broader market.
  • Ethical Aspect: While Rightmove itself doesn’t manage properties, it facilitates transactions by connecting users with agents who are typically regulated. It provides a transparent overview of available properties.
• Zoopla:
  • Focus: Another major online property portal for sales and rentals in the UK.
  • How it compares: Similar to Rightmove, Zoopla aggregates listings from various agents. It also provides valuable market data, such as estimated property values and local area insights, which can be useful for both landlords and tenants.
  • Ethical Aspect: Offers transparency in property availability and market data. Connects users with regulated agents.
• OpenRent:
  • Focus: An online letting agent designed for landlords who prefer to manage their properties directly, but need assistance with advertising and legalities.
  • How it compares: OpenRent offers a more DIY approach than Howes Estates. While Howes Estates provides full property management, OpenRent empowers landlords to find tenants, get referencing, and draw up contracts at a lower cost, putting the landlord in more direct control.
  • Ethical Aspect: Provides tools for transparent tenant finding and legally compliant tenancy agreements. Empowers landlords to manage their properties ethically without excessive third-party fees.
• ARLA Propertymark:
  • Focus: Not a service provider itself, but a professional body for letting agents in the UK.
  • How it compares: This is where you go to find other reputable agents, ensuring they adhere to strict professional standards, handle client money correctly, and are part of a redress scheme. While Howes Estates appears professional, checking if they (or any agent) are ARLA accredited adds an extra layer of confidence.
  • Ethical Aspect: By choosing an ARLA Propertymark protected agent, you’re opting for a professional who adheres to a strict code of conduct, ensuring client money protection, and a clear complaints procedure, which is paramount for ethical practice in the property sector.
• Purplebricks:
  • Focus: A hybrid online estate agent with local property experts.
  • How it compares: Purplebricks offers a middle ground between traditional agents like Howes Estates and purely online platforms. They provide a local expert for valuations and viewings, but much of the process is managed online, often with fixed fees, which can be appealing for landlords.
  • Ethical Aspect: Attempts to bring transparency to agent fees with fixed pricing models, promoting a clear understanding of costs for landlords.
• Hunters Estate Agents:
  • Focus: A large network of traditional estate agencies across the UK.
  • How it compares: Hunters operates more like a traditional high-street agent, similar to Howes Estates, but with a broader national footprint. If you’re looking for a full-service, in-person experience in a different region, a local Hunters branch might be a suitable alternative.
  • Ethical Aspect: As an established chain, they are expected to adhere to industry standards and regulations, providing a structured service.
• Local Independent Estate Agents (Search “Estate Agents near me” on Google Maps):
  • Focus: Your hyper-local, independent agencies.
  • How it compares: Howes Estates is itself an independent agency with a local focus. This alternative simply highlights the importance of searching for other reputable independent agents in your specific area. These often provide highly personalised service and deep local knowledge.
  • Ethical Aspect: Independent agents often rely heavily on local reputation and word-of-mouth, which incentivises ethical and high-quality service. Checking their Google reviews and local reputation is key.

How to Cancel Howesestates.co.uk Subscription

The concept of “cancelling a subscription” with an estate agency like Howesestates.co.uk isn’t typically applicable in the same way as, say, a Netflix subscription. Their services are project-based or contract-based, revolving around property management agreements, letting agreements, or valuation requests.

Understanding the Service Agreement

For landlords, your relationship with Howes Estates (Pure Lettings) would be governed by a Property Management Agreement or a Lettings Service Agreement. These are formal contracts outlining the terms of their service, fees, responsibilities, and, crucially, the notice period for termination.

• Review Your Contract: The absolute first step is to locate and carefully read the service agreement you signed with Howes Estates (Pure Lettings). This document will explicitly state the terms and conditions for terminating their services. Look for sections titled “Termination,” “Notice Period,” “Cancellation,” or “Withdrawal of Instruction.”
• Typical Notice Periods: Common notice periods for property management contracts range from 1 to 3 months. For example, a contract might state you need to give “90 days written notice” to terminate.
• Fees on Termination: Also, check if there are any early termination fees or charges for services rendered up to the point of cancellation, or if you withdraw your property from the market after a certain period. Some agreements might charge a percentage of the annual rent or a fixed fee if you pull out before a tenant is found or a minimum term is met.

The Cancellation Process

Once you’ve reviewed your contract, the process generally involves the following steps:

1. Formal Written Notice: You will almost certainly be required to provide written notice of your intention to terminate the agreement. This should be sent via email (if an email address for formal notices is specified in the contract) and ideally also via recorded delivery post to their official office address for undeniable proof of delivery.
   • Key Information to Include:
     • Your full name and contact details.
     • The property address concerned.
     • Your client reference number (if applicable).
     • A clear statement of your intention to terminate the service.
     • The effective date of termination, calculated according to your contract’s notice period.
     • Your signature.
2. Communication with the Agency: Follow up your written notice with a phone call to the Howes Estates team (specifically Vickie or Darren, as mentioned on the site) to ensure they’ve received your notice and to discuss the handover process. Be prepared to discuss:
   • The transfer of any tenant deposits held.
   • Handover of keys, property documents, and tenant contact information.
   • Final statements and fee settlements.
3. Tenant Notification (if applicable): If Howes Estates is managing a tenancy, you’ll need to coordinate with them on how and when the tenant will be informed of the change in management. This needs to be handled smoothly to ensure the tenancy continues without disruption.
4. Deposit Protection Scheme: Ensure that any tenant deposits previously protected by Howes Estates (if they handled this for you) are either transferred to your new management arrangement or returned to the tenant in accordance with legal requirements. Verify this through the relevant deposit protection scheme (e.g., DPS, TDS, MyDeposits).
5. Final Account Settlement: Be prepared to settle any outstanding fees up to the termination date. They should provide a final statement.

How to Cancel Howesestates.co.uk Free Trial

The concept of a “free trial” is typically associated with software, streaming services, or subscription boxes. Estate agencies like Howesestates.co.uk don’t generally offer “free trials” in this sense. Integramedical.co.uk Review

• Free Valuation vs. Free Trial: What they do offer, prominently, is a “FREE valuation.” This is a no-obligation service where they assess your property’s rental value. You are not entering into a contractual agreement for ongoing services by requesting a valuation.
  • If you’ve only requested a free valuation, there’s nothing to “cancel.” You haven’t subscribed to anything.
• Initial Consultation: Similarly, an initial consultation or discussion about their services is not a free trial. It’s part of the pre-contractual engagement.
• No Ongoing Commitment: Until you formally sign a Property Management Agreement or Lettings Service Agreement, there is no commitment. You simply decline to proceed with their services after the valuation or initial discussion if you choose not to.

Therefore, for Howesestates.co.uk, you won’t find a “cancel free trial” button because such a mechanism doesn’t apply to their business model. Your engagement becomes contractual only upon signing a formal service agreement.

Howesestates.co.uk Pricing

Understanding pricing for property management and letting services can sometimes feel like navigating a maze, but reputable agencies aim for clarity. Howesestates.co.uk, through its “Landlord Fees” and “Permitted Payments” sections, signals a commitment to transparency, which is a big plus. However, exact figures aren’t on the homepage.

Typical Lettings Fees Structure

In the UK, letting agency fees generally fall into a few categories for landlords:

1. Let Only Service:
   • What it is: The agent finds a tenant, carries out referencing, and draws up the tenancy agreement. Once the tenant moves in, the landlord takes over management.
   • Pricing: Typically a one-off fee, often a percentage of the first year’s rent (e.g., 8-10%) or a fixed fee (e.g., £500-£1,500), sometimes with an additional setup fee.
2. Rent Collection Service:
   • What it is: Includes “Let Only” services, plus the agent collects rent and remits it to the landlord, chasing arrears if necessary. Management of maintenance and other issues remains with the landlord.
   • Pricing: A smaller ongoing percentage of the monthly rent (e.g., 3-5%) in addition to the “Let Only” fee, or a higher fixed fee combining both.
3. Full Management Service:
   • What it is: The most comprehensive service. The agent handles everything from finding a tenant, rent collection, property maintenance, periodic inspections, legal compliance, and tenant liaison throughout the tenancy.
   • Pricing: This is usually an ongoing percentage of the monthly rent (e.g., 10-15%, sometimes up to 20% for premium services). There might still be an initial setup fee.

Fees Specific to Howesestates.co.uk (Based on Homepage Cues)

While specific percentages or fixed prices are not on the homepage, the presence of “Landlord Fees” and “Permitted Payments” links indicates that this information will be clearly laid out on those respective pages.

• Landlord Fees (https://howesestates.co.uk/page/13-landlord-fees): This page is where landlords will find the detailed breakdown of charges for their services. This is crucial for transparency. It would typically cover:
  • Management fees: (e.g., percentage of rent for full management).
  • Letting fees: (e.g., for finding a tenant).
  • Renewal fees: (for extending a tenancy).
  • Inventory fees: (for creating a detailed record of the property’s condition).
  • Check-in/Check-out fees.
  • Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) arrangement fees: (Though they also link to a direct email for an assessor, suggesting external arrangement).
  • Compliance costs: (e.g., gas safety certificates, electrical safety checks).
• Permitted Payments (https://howesestates.co.uk/page/16-permitted-payments): This is a key section for tenants. The Tenant Fees Act 2019 in England banned most tenant fees. The “Permitted Payments” page would detail the only charges tenants can legally be asked to pay. These typically include:
  • Rent
  • Refundable tenancy deposit (capped at 5 or 6 weeks’ rent)
  • Refundable holding deposit (capped at one week’s rent)
  • Payments in the event of a default (e.g., missed rent, lost keys)
  • Payments for changes to the tenancy (e.g., adding a new tenant, capped at £50 or reasonable costs)
  • Payments for early termination (if requested by the tenant)
  • Payments for council tax, utilities, TV licence, communication services.

Importance of Transparency in Pricing

For ethical businesses, especially in the property sector, transparent pricing is non-negotiable. Hidden fees can erode trust and lead to disputes. The fact that Howesestates.co.uk explicitly links to these fee structures from their primary navigation is a very strong positive indicator. It shows they are upfront about costs, which is highly commendable. Landlords should always compare the total potential costs, not just the headline management percentage, when choosing an agent. Leasecomparison.co.uk Review

Howesestates.co.uk vs. Competitors

When evaluating any service, it’s wise to compare it against its competitors. Howesestates.co.uk operates primarily as a local, independent lettings and property management agency in the Okehampton area of Devon. This local focus is both its strength and its defining characteristic when compared to broader market players.

Traditional High-Street Agencies (e.g., Local Branches of Connells, Hunters, or other independents)

• Howesestates.co.uk: Positions itself as a well-respected independent business, with a clear focus on community and local knowledge. They highlight their “dedicated lettings team based in Okehampton town,” suggesting a hands-on, personal approach. The acquisition of “Pure Lettings” in 2017 further solidifies their local roots and established reputation.
• Competitors: Larger chains might offer more standardised processes and potentially broader marketing reach through their national networks. However, they can sometimes lack the personalised touch and deep local insights that an independent agency like Howes Estates can provide. Other independent agencies would compete directly on service quality, local reputation, and fee structures in the same geographical area.
• Key Differentiator: Howes Estates’ strong local testimonials and emphasis on community integration suggest a highly personalised service often valued by clients who prefer direct relationships over corporate structures. Their “Read More” about their team and history also points to a focus on personal trust.

Online/Hybrid Agents (e.g., OpenRent, Purplebricks)

• Howesestates.co.uk: Operates on a more traditional, full-service model, handling much of the landlord’s burden. Their fees would likely reflect this comprehensive service, typically being a percentage of monthly rent for management or a higher one-off fee for ‘let only’ services.
• Competitors: Online agents like OpenRent are designed for landlords who want to save money by doing more of the work themselves (e.g., conducting viewings). Purplebricks offers a hybrid model with fixed fees, combining online tools with local experts, which can be cost-effective.
• Key Differentiator: Howes Estates appeals to landlords seeking a truly hands-off approach to property management, where the agency takes care of the day-to-day operations, maintenance, and tenant communication. This contrasts with the more self-service nature of many online platforms. The provision of mobile apps by Howes Estates, however, shows they are embracing digital convenience alongside their traditional service.

Property Portals (e.g., Rightmove, Zoopla)

• Howesestates.co.uk: Is an agency that lists properties on these portals. They are a service provider, not a search engine for properties.
• Competitors: Rightmove and Zoopla are aggregators. They don’t manage properties directly but serve as essential marketing platforms for agencies like Howes Estates to reach a wider audience of prospective tenants.
• Key Differentiator: There’s no direct competition here in terms of service model. Howes Estates uses these platforms to market their properties, thereby extending their reach beyond their own website.

Overall Competitive Stance

Howesestates.co.uk appears to be a solid choice for those in or around Okehampton seeking a local, reliable, and full-service property letting and management agency. Their focus on transparency (landlord fees, permitted payments), personal touch (team, testimonials), and investment in modern tools (mobile apps) positions them well against other independent local agents. They are likely to appeal to landlords who value a dedicated local team handling all aspects of their property, rather than those seeking the lowest cost online-only solutions or the standardised feel of a national chain. Their emphasis on keeping landlords “up to date with the ever-changing regulations” also highlights a commitment to compliance, a critical factor in today’s regulated property market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What services does Howesestates.co.uk offer?

Howesestates.co.uk primarily offers residential letting services, property management, and advice for both landlords and tenants in the Okehampton area of Devon. They also provide free property valuations.

Is Howesestates.co.uk a legitimate company?

Yes, based on the website’s professional appearance, clear contact information, detailed service descriptions, and customer testimonials, Howesestates.co.uk appears to be a legitimate property letting business.

Where is Howesestates.co.uk based?

Howesestates.co.uk, operating under the brand Pure Lettings, is based in Okehampton, Devon, United Kingdom. Technical-solutions.co.uk Review

How can I request a property valuation from Howesestates.co.uk?

You can request a free property valuation by clicking on the “Get Your Free Valuation” button or similar links prominently displayed on their homepage.

Does Howesestates.co.uk have a mobile app?

Yes, Howesestates.co.uk offers a dedicated mobile app for Pure Lettings Devon Ltd, available for download on both the App Store (iOS) and Google Play (Android).

Can I view properties to let on Howesestates.co.uk?

Yes, the website has a “Properties to Let” section where you can view available rental properties.

Does Howesestates.co.uk provide advice for landlords?

Yes, they have a dedicated section offering “Advice for Landlords” which likely covers various aspects of property letting and management.

Does Howesestates.co.uk provide advice for tenants?

Yes, they also provide “Advice for Tenants,” which includes information on permitted payments and the renting process. Discusgroup.co.uk Review

How transparent are Howesestates.co.uk’s fees?

Howesestates.co.uk appears transparent with their fees, as they have specific links for “Landlord Fees” and “Permitted Payments” prominently displayed on their website.

What kind of customer reviews are available for Howesestates.co.uk?

The homepage features several positive customer testimonials, often including names and specific positive experiences, which build credibility.

How do I contact Howesestates.co.uk?

You can contact them via the phone number provided on the website (+44183755755) or through their “Contact us” page.

What is “Pure Lettings Devon Ltd”?

Pure Lettings Devon Ltd is the residential letting business that Howes Estates procured in 2017, and it now operates under the guidance of Howes Estates, maintaining a local team in Okehampton.

Does Howesestates.co.uk handle property management?

Yes, they explicitly list “Property Management” as one of their core services, indicating they handle the ongoing management of rental properties for landlords. Merchant-house.co.uk Review

Are there any early termination fees with Howesestates.co.uk?

Information on early termination fees would be detailed in their formal service agreements for landlords. It is recommended to review your specific contract.

What is the process for renting a property through Howesestates.co.uk?

The website has a “Renting Process” page which would detail the steps involved for tenants looking to rent a property through them, likely including application, referencing, and contract signing.

How does Howesestates.co.uk ensure landlords are protected?

The website states they ensure “landlords are protected and kept up to date with the ever-changing regulations within the lettings industry,” implying a focus on compliance and legal adherence.

Do I need to pay for an EPC through Howesestates.co.uk?

The website provides information on Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and a contact email for an assessor, suggesting they can arrange this service, which may involve a fee.

What is the purpose of the “Login” section on Howesestates.co.uk?

The “Login” section likely provides a client portal for existing landlords and possibly tenants to access their account details, statements, or property information. Myelement.co.uk Review

How often does Howesestates.co.uk update its “News” section?

While there’s a “News” section, the homepage doesn’t indicate the frequency of updates. You would need to visit the actual news/blog page (https://howesestates.co.uk/blogs) to check their latest posts.

Does Howesestates.co.uk offer services outside of Okehampton?

While their primary focus and team are in Okehampton, for services outside of this specific area, it would be best to contact them directly to confirm their operational reach.