Howards.co.uk Reviews

Based on looking at the website, Howards.co.uk appears to be a well-established estate and letting agency operating in Norfolk and North Suffolk since 1926. The site emphasizes a commitment to providing “straightforward, down-to-earth advice and guidance” to make the property journey as easy as possible for its clients.

They offer services for buying, selling, and letting properties, alongside mortgage services through a partnership with Just Mortgages.

Overall, the website presents a professional and experienced front for those looking to engage in property transactions within their service areas.

Find detailed reviews on Trustpilot, Reddit, and BBB.org.

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.

Navigating the Howards.co.uk Platform: User Experience and Accessibility

When you’re trying to make a big decision like buying or selling a home, the last thing you want is a clunky website.

Based on reviewing Howards.co.uk, it’s clear they’ve put some thought into the user experience, aiming for a smooth, intuitive journey.

Think of it like this: you want to find the right tool for the job, and if the toolbox is a mess, you’re already behind.

Website Layout and Design

The site has a clean, minimalist design that doesn’t overwhelm you with unnecessary graphics or animations. This is a smart move, as the focus should be on the properties and services, not distractions.

• Header: The top section is straightforward, featuring their logo and primary navigation links like “Buy,” “Let,” “Sell,” and “Mortgages.”
• Search Bar: A prominent search bar allows you to quickly look for properties, which is crucial for any real estate site. You can often filter by location, property type, and price range.
• Property Listings: Properties are displayed clearly, often with high-quality images and essential details visible at a glance. This allows for quick scanning.
• Footer: The footer contains important links to their blog, contact information, and legal disclaimers, ensuring all necessary information is accessible.

Ease of Navigation

Navigating Howards.co.uk feels pretty fluid.

The menu structure is logical, and you can generally find what you’re looking for without digging through multiple layers.

• Clear Categories: Services are neatly categorized For Sale, To Let, Mortgage Services, making it easy to jump to the relevant section.
• Quick Links: They’ve included “Quick Links” in the footer, which is a nice touch for rapid access to commonly sought information like requesting a valuation or signing up for property alerts.
• Internal Linking: Important internal pages, such as individual property listings or service descriptions, are well-linked, keeping you within the site’s ecosystem.

Mobile Responsiveness

• Fluid Layouts: Content reflows gracefully, ensuring text is readable and images are scaled correctly.
• Touch-Friendly Elements: Buttons and interactive elements are adequately sized for touch input, preventing accidental clicks.
• Consistent Experience: The core functionality remains consistent across devices, so you can search for properties or request a valuation just as easily on your commute as you can from your home office.

Property Listings and Search Functionality: Your Gateway to a New Home

Let’s be real, the main reason you’re on an estate agent’s website is to find property.

Howards.co.uk seems to understand this, offering robust listing and search features designed to help you pinpoint exactly what you’re looking for.

It’s like having a well-organized database at your fingertips, rather than sifting through endless paper files.

Detailed Property Information

Each property listing on Howards.co.uk provides a comprehensive overview, giving you a strong sense of what’s on offer before you even pick up the phone. Genixhealthcare.com Reviews

This saves you time and ensures you’re only pursuing properties that genuinely match your criteria.

• High-Quality Photography: Expect to see multiple, high-resolution images that showcase the property from various angles, including interiors and exteriors. This is critical for getting a feel for the space.
• Floor Plans: Many listings include detailed floor plans, which are invaluable for understanding the layout and flow of a property. This can help you visualize how your furniture might fit or if the current configuration suits your needs.
• Key Features and Description: A concise yet informative description highlights the property’s main selling points, often listing features like the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, garden access, and proximity to local amenities.
• EPC Ratings: You’ll typically find Energy Performance Certificate EPC ratings, which provide insights into a property’s energy efficiency. This is increasingly important for both environmental impact and potential running costs.
• Location Details: While not always precise to the exact address for privacy, listings generally provide enough geographical context e.g., street name, nearby landmarks, or a map to help you gauge the location.

Advanced Search Filters

A broad search is fine, but targeted filtering is where the real power lies.

Howards.co.uk offers a range of filters to help you narrow down your options, much like a good scout uses the right tools to find specific resources.

• Location: The primary filter, allowing you to search by towns and villages across Norfolk and North Suffolk, including specific areas like Beccles, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, and Lowestoft.
• Property Type: Filter by houses, flats, bungalows, or other specific property types to refine your search.
• Price Range: Set minimum and maximum price points to ensure you only see properties within your budget.
• Number of Bedrooms: Essential for families or individuals with specific space requirements.
• “For Sale” vs. “To Let”: Easily switch between properties available for purchase and those for rent.
• Added Date: Sometimes you want the freshest listings, and filtering by how recently a property was added can be useful.

Property Alerts and Saved Searches

Beyond immediate searching, Howards.co.uk provides tools to keep you in the loop, ensuring you don’t miss out on new opportunities.

• Property Alerts: By signing up, you can receive email notifications whenever new properties matching your specific criteria location, price, bedrooms, etc. become available. This is a passive but effective way to stay updated.
• Saved Searches: While not explicitly detailed, it’s common for modern property sites to allow users to save their search parameters, making it easy to revisit and re-run complex searches without re-entering all the filters. This streamlines your ongoing property hunt.

Services Offered Beyond Listings: A Comprehensive Property Partner

Howards.co.uk isn’t just a place to browse homes.

It positions itself as a comprehensive partner in your property journey.

Think of it as a multi-tool for real estate—it’s got more than just a screwdriver.

They offer a range of services designed to support you whether you’re buying, selling, or letting.

Selling Your Property

For sellers, Howards aims to simplify what can often be a complex and stressful process.

Their approach suggests a focus on effective marketing and expert guidance. Theforexcomplex.com Reviews

• Free, No-Obligation Valuation: This is a crucial first step for any seller. Howards offers a “free, no-obligation, expert property valuation,” which is essential for understanding your home’s current market value. This allows you to set a realistic asking price and plan your next steps.
• FLINK – Bespoke Marketing Tool: This sounds like a key differentiator. FLINK is described as a “bespoke marketing tool that targets buyers looking for property like yours, so they’re more likely to arrange a viewing, & make an offer.” This suggests a data-driven approach to connecting sellers with the most qualified buyers, potentially reducing time on the market and increasing the likelihood of a successful sale. It implies a targeted advertising strategy beyond just listing on portals.
• Expert Advice and Guidance: The website repeatedly mentions offering “straightforward, down-to-earth advice and guidance.” This implies that their agents are there to support you through the entire selling process, from preparing your home for viewing to negotiating offers and navigating legalities. This kind of human touch is invaluable.

Letting Your Property

For landlords, Howards provides services to manage the rental process, from finding tenants to ongoing management.

This is about making landlording less of a headache.

• Tenant Sourcing and Vetting: While not explicitly detailed, a letting agency typically handles finding suitable tenants, including advertising the property, conducting viewings, and carrying out background checks and referencing.
• Property Management: Many letting agencies offer full property management services, which can include rent collection, maintenance coordination, and legal compliance. While the website highlights “To Let” listings, the depth of their management services would require direct inquiry.
• Compliance with Regulations: A reputable letting agent will ensure that all rental agreements and processes comply with the latest housing regulations, offering peace of mind to landlords.

Mortgage Services via Just Mortgages

Howards facilitates this through a partnership, which is a common and practical approach.

• Partnership with Just Mortgages: Howards introduces clients to Just Mortgages Direct Limited, an appointed representative of The Openwork Partnership. This means you’re getting advice from FCA-regulated mortgage advisers.
• Comprehensive Mortgage Advice: A Just Mortgages Adviser can assist throughout the entire process:
  • Home Buying: Guiding first-time buyers or those moving house.
  • Remortgaging: Helping existing homeowners secure better rates or release equity.
  • Right Guidance and Advice: Their goal is to ensure you “receive the right guidance and advice,” suggesting a client-focused approach to finding suitable mortgage products.
• Important Disclaimer: They prominently display the crucial disclaimer: “YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.” This is a regulatory requirement and demonstrates transparency regarding financial risks.

Local Expertise and Community Focus: Beyond Just Bricks and Mortar

When you’re dealing with property, local knowledge isn’t just a nice-to-have. it’s absolutely essential.

Howards.co.uk heavily emphasizes its deep roots and understanding of the Norfolk and North Suffolk areas, which is a significant advantage. This isn’t just about selling houses.

It’s about selling a lifestyle in specific communities.

Deep-Rooted Local Presence

Howards isn’t some fly-by-night operation. They’ve been around the block a few times, specifically since 1926. This longevity is a testament to their sustained presence and experience in the region.

• Established History: Founded almost a century ago, Howards has “established itself as a leading Estate and Letting Agents in Norfolk and North Suffolk.” This long history means they’ve seen market cycles, understood local developments, and built relationships within these communities.
• Multiple Branch Locations: They proudly list branches in Beccles, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft, and Long Stratton. Having physical offices in key areas allows them to serve local clients directly and maintain a strong presence on the ground. This also means their agents are likely living and working within these communities, giving them firsthand knowledge.
• Understanding Micro-Markets: Each town and even neighborhood can have its own unique characteristics, property values, and buyer demographics. A truly local agent understands these nuances. For instance, knowing the appeal of a coastal town like Lowestoft versus a historic city like Norwich is critical for effective property matching and marketing.

Community Insights and Resources

Beyond just listings, Howards seems to invest in providing information about the areas they serve, which is incredibly helpful for potential buyers unfamiliar with the region.

It’s like getting a local’s guide before you even arrive.

• “Living In…” Blog Series: Their blog features articles like “Living in Norwich,” “Living in Lowestoft,” and “Living in Great Yarmouth.” These posts offer insights into:
  • Local amenities: Schools, shops, restaurants, leisure facilities.
  • Transport links: Roads, public transport options.
  • Lifestyle: What it’s like to actually live there, capturing the local vibe.
  • Property trends: General market conditions in those specific areas.
• Targeted Property Listings: The extensive list of towns and villages on their homepage e.g., Acle, Attleborough, Bungay, Wymondham, Sheringham demonstrates their broad coverage and ability to serve a wide range of specific local markets. This level of detail confirms their reach.
• Benefit for Buyers and Sellers:
  • For Buyers: This local expertise helps you make informed decisions about where to live, factoring in more than just the house itself. You get a sense of the community.
  • For Sellers: An agent with strong local knowledge can accurately value your property based on local market conditions and effectively market it to the right demographic of buyers who are looking for that specific area. They know what makes your neighborhood attractive.

Transparency and Trustworthiness: The Pillars of a Good Agency

In the world of property, trust is everything. Steadyecom.com Reviews

You’re dealing with significant financial transactions and often highly personal decisions.

Howards.co.uk seems to prioritize transparency and building trust, which is a good sign.

It’s about demonstrating integrity, not just saying you have it.

Regulatory Compliance and Disclaimers

A key indicator of a trustworthy business is its adherence to regulations and its willingness to be upfront about potential risks.

• Financial Conduct Authority FCA Regulation: Their partnership with Just Mortgages highlights that the mortgage services are provided by an appointed representative of The Openwork Partnership, which is “authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.” This is a critical piece of information for anyone considering their mortgage advice, as it means they operate under strict consumer protection guidelines.
• Mortgage Repossession Disclaimer: The prominent display of “YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE” is not just a legal requirement. it’s a demonstration of responsible practice. It ensures that clients are fully aware of the risks involved in taking out a mortgage.
• Company Registration Details: Providing the registered office address and company registration number for Just Mortgages Direct Limited e.g., Registered in England No. 2412345 adds another layer of legitimacy.

Privacy and Data Security

While not explicitly detailed on the homepage, any reputable property website should have clear policies regarding user data. Look for:

• Privacy Policy: A link to a comprehensive privacy policy outlining how they collect, use, store, and protect your personal data. This is crucial under GDPR in the UK.
• Terms and Conditions: Clear terms of service for using their website and engaging with their services.
• Secure Browsing HTTPS: Ensure the website uses HTTPS indicated by a padlock icon in your browser’s address bar, meaning communication between your browser and the site is encrypted, protecting your information.

Customer Testimonials and Reviews Implied

While the homepage text doesn’t show direct testimonials, the phrase “Good service, good advice, from people who care…” suggests an emphasis on client satisfaction. In a full review, you’d want to look for:

• Independent Review Platforms: Do they link to or showcase reviews on platforms like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, or AllAgents? These provide unfiltered feedback from actual clients.
• Case Studies: Sometimes agencies will share success stories or case studies, which can illustrate their effectiveness.
• Response to Feedback: A good agency doesn’t just collect reviews. they respond to them, addressing both positive and negative feedback constructively.

Industry Affiliations and Accreditations: A Mark of Professionalism

When choosing a property agent, you want to know they play by the rules and adhere to professional standards.

Industry affiliations and accreditations are key indicators of a reputable firm.

It’s like checking for a pilot’s license before you board the plane.

Professional Bodies and Ombudsman Schemes

Membership in recognized industry bodies demonstrates a commitment to professional conduct and provides recourse for consumers if things go wrong. Dontoverthinktrading.com Reviews

• The Property Ombudsman TPO: While not explicitly stated on the provided homepage text, most reputable UK estate agents are members of The Property Ombudsman TPO scheme or the Property Redress Scheme PRS. This means they adhere to a code of conduct and provide an independent dispute resolution service for consumers. It’s a critical safeguard for clients.
• National Association of Estate Agents NAEA Propertymark: Membership in NAEA Propertymark for sales or ARLA Propertymark for lettings signifies that agents meet certain professional standards, undertake continuous professional development, and often hold client money protection.
• Client Money Protection CMP Scheme: For letting agents, participation in a government-approved CMP scheme is mandatory. This protects landlords’ and tenants’ money like deposits and rent payments in the event the agency goes bust.

Regulatory Compliance

Beyond specific associations, adherence to broader UK regulations is paramount.

• Consumer Protection from Unfair Trading Regulations 2008: These regulations prohibit misleading actions and omissions by businesses and apply to property agents.
• Estate Agents Act 1979: This act governs how estate agents operate, including requirements for client money handling and disclosure of personal interest.
• Anti-Money Laundering Regulations: All estate agents are subject to strict anti-money laundering AML regulations, requiring them to verify the identity of their clients.

What These Accreditations Mean for You

These affiliations aren’t just badges. they represent tangible benefits for clients:

• Peace of Mind: Knowing your agent is regulated provides a layer of security and assurance.
• Professional Standards: It indicates that the agency and its staff are committed to ethical practices and professional competence.
• Recourse for Disputes: If you have a complaint that cannot be resolved directly with the agency, these schemes offer an independent avenue for resolution.
• Financial Protection: Especially relevant for letting agents, CMP schemes protect your money.

While the Howards.co.uk homepage doesn’t list these affiliations directly, a deeper dive into their “About Us” or “Contact Us” sections, or a quick search, would typically confirm their membership in these vital schemes.

Any reputable agent in the UK will clearly display these credentials.

Customer Support and Communication: Staying Connected on Your Property Journey

In the often-stressful world of property transactions, effective communication and responsive customer support are non-negotiable.

You want an agent who keeps you in the loop and is readily available to answer your questions.

Howards.co.uk appears to understand the importance of this, offering multiple channels for engagement.

It’s like having a dedicated project manager for your biggest investment.

Contact Channels

Howards provides various ways to get in touch, catering to different preferences and urgency levels.

This multi-channel approach ensures you can reach them when you need to. Joinfreedelivery.com Reviews

• Phone Numbers: Given their multiple branch locations Beccles, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft, Long Stratton, it’s highly probable they have direct phone lines for each branch. This allows for immediate communication and localized support. A quick look at their contact page would confirm this.
• Online Enquiry Forms: The website likely features “Request a Valuation” and “Enquire about Mortgage Services” forms. These are convenient for non-urgent queries and allow you to provide detailed information upfront. This is often the first point of contact for new clients.
• Email Addresses: While not explicitly on the homepage, professional agencies typically provide dedicated email addresses for general inquiries, specific departments e.g., sales, lettings, mortgages, or individual agents. This is ideal for sending documents or detailed questions.
• Physical Branch Visits: With multiple physical offices, clients have the option to visit in person. This can be invaluable for face-to-face discussions, signing documents, or simply building rapport.
• Property Alerts Sign-up: While not a direct support channel, this is a form of proactive communication, keeping potential buyers informed about new listings that match their criteria.

Responsiveness and Accessibility

The impression from the website text “Good service, good advice, from people who care…” hints at a customer-centric approach.

What does this translate to in terms of responsiveness?

• Prompt Responses: When you submit an online inquiry or leave a voicemail, you’d expect a timely response. A good agency aims to get back to you within a few business hours, if not sooner.
• Dedicated Points of Contact: For ongoing transactions selling, buying, or letting, you’ll often be assigned a specific agent or team member as your primary point of contact. This streamlines communication and ensures consistency.
• After-Hours Support for urgent issues: While not always guaranteed, some agencies offer limited emergency contact for critical issues outside of regular business hours, particularly for managed rental properties.
• Clear Communication of Process: Agents should clearly explain each step of the property journey, setting expectations for timelines and necessary actions. This proactive communication reduces anxiety and confusion.

Feedback Mechanisms

A truly client-focused business welcomes feedback to continuously improve.

• Review Platforms: As mentioned earlier, their presence on independent review sites like Trustpilot, Google Reviews, AllAgents allows clients to share their experiences. This also demonstrates their openness to public scrutiny.
• Direct Feedback: They should have internal mechanisms for clients to provide feedback directly to the agency, whether through surveys, direct emails, or follow-up calls after a transaction.

Blog and Resources: Empowering Your Property Decisions

Beyond direct services, a valuable property website offers resources that empower you to make informed decisions.

Howards.co.uk features a blog, which is a smart move for providing extra value and establishing thought leadership.

Think of it as a comprehensive guide, not just a sales pitch.

Informative Blog Content

The blog is highlighted as a source of “essential insights to help support your decision making process.” This isn’t just fluffy content. it aims to be genuinely useful.

• “Living in…” Series: As noted earlier, articles like “Living in Norwich,” “Living in Lowestoft,” and “Living in Great Yarmouth” are excellent examples. These posts provide:
  • Area Guides: Detailed information about specific locations, including local amenities, transport, schools, and general lifestyle.
  • Insights for Relocation: Valuable for individuals or families considering a move to the region, helping them understand the nuances of each community.
  • Decision Support: Helps potential buyers weigh the pros and cons of different areas before committing to a specific property.
• Property Market Insights: While not explicitly listed on the homepage, a good estate agent’s blog often covers:
  • Market Trends: Updates on local property values, supply and demand, and forecasts.
  • Buying/Selling Tips: Advice on preparing your home for sale, securing a mortgage, understanding legal processes, or what to look for when buying.
  • Landlord Advice: Guidance on tenant laws, property maintenance, and maximizing rental yields.
• Regular Updates: The examples provided show recent posts from December 11, 2024, indicating a commitment to keeping the content fresh and relevant. Regular updates are crucial for maintaining authority and providing timely information.

Value Proposition of Resources

These resources add significant value for both potential and existing clients, moving beyond just transactional interactions.

• Education and Empowerment: By providing accessible information, Howards helps you understand the complex property market, allowing you to make more confident decisions. It’s about demystifying the process.
• Building Trust: When an agency consistently provides useful, unbiased information, it builds trust and positions them as an authority in the field. They’re not just trying to sell you something. they’re trying to help you.
• SEO Benefits: From a business perspective, a well-maintained blog with valuable content improves search engine optimization SEO, making it easier for people to find Howards.co.uk when searching for property-related information in their service areas. This is a strategic investment.
• Attracting and Retaining Clients: Informative content can attract new clients who are in the early stages of their property journey and keep existing clients engaged and informed.

Frequently Asked Questions 20 Real Questions + Full Answers

What services does Howards.co.uk offer?

Howards.co.uk is a comprehensive estate and letting agency offering services for property sales, property lettings, and mortgage advice through their partnership with Just Mortgages.

They assist with buying, selling, and renting properties in Norfolk and North Suffolk. Ruthe1.com Reviews

Where are Howards.co.uk’s branches located?

Howards.co.uk has physical branches in Beccles, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft, and Long Stratton, all within the Norfolk and North Suffolk regions.

How long has Howards.co.uk been operating?

Howards.co.uk has been operating since 1926, establishing itself as a long-standing and experienced estate and letting agent in its service areas.

Can I get a free property valuation from Howards.co.uk?

Yes, Howards.co.uk offers a free, no-obligation, expert property valuation service to help you determine your home’s real market value.

What is FLINK and how does it help sellers?

FLINK is a bespoke marketing tool used by Howards.co.uk that targets buyers specifically looking for properties like yours.

It aims to increase viewings and offers by connecting sellers with the most relevant potential buyers.

Does Howards.co.uk help with mortgages?

Yes, Howards.co.uk introduces clients to Just Mortgages Direct Limited, which is an appointed representative of The Openwork Partnership, authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority, to provide mortgage advice.

Is Just Mortgages regulated by the FCA?

Yes, Just Mortgages Direct Limited, the partner providing mortgage services, is an appointed representative of The Openwork Partnership, a trading style of Openwork Limited, which is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority FCA.

How can I sign up for property alerts on Howards.co.uk?

You can sign up for property alerts on Howards.co.uk to receive notifications about newly-released properties that match your specific criteria, such as location, price, and number of bedrooms.

The option to sign up is available on their website.

What types of properties does Howards.co.uk list?

Howards.co.uk lists a variety of property types, including houses, flats, bungalows, and other residential properties available for both sale “For Sale” and rent “To Let” across their service areas. Woodysmotorhomehirecumbria.com Reviews

Does Howards.co.uk cover specific towns and villages?

Yes, Howards.co.uk covers a wide range of specific towns and villages within Norfolk and North Suffolk, including but not limited to Acle, Attleborough, Beccles, Bungay, Diss, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft, Norwich, and Wymondham.

Can I view properties “To Let” on the Howards.co.uk website?

Yes, you can view current property “To Let” listings across all Howards Letting Agency branches directly on their website.

Does Howards.co.uk have a blog?

Yes, Howards.co.uk has an online blog that provides essential insights and articles to help support property decision-making processes, including “Living in…” guides for local areas.

How do I contact Howards.co.uk?

You can contact Howards.co.uk through their website’s inquiry forms for valuations or mortgage services.

They also have contact details for their specific branches, which typically include phone numbers and physical addresses.

What information is typically included in property listings?

Property listings on Howards.co.uk typically include high-quality photographs, detailed descriptions, key features, floor plans, EPC ratings, and general location details to give you a comprehensive overview.

Is there a disclaimer about mortgages on Howards.co.uk?

Yes, Howards.co.uk prominently displays the important disclaimer: “YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE,” in line with regulatory requirements.

How does Howards.co.uk help buyers find a home?

Howards.co.uk helps buyers through detailed property listings, advanced search filters, property alerts, and expert guidance from their agents and mortgage advisors.

What is the primary focus of Howards.co.uk’s service?

Howards.co.uk’s primary focus is to make the property journey as easy as possible by offering straightforward, down-to-earth advice and guidance to clients looking to buy, sell, or let properties in Norfolk and North Suffolk.

Does Howards.co.uk offer property management for landlords?

While the website highlights “To Let” listings, full property management services for landlords including tenant sourcing, rent collection, and maintenance coordination are typical offerings for letting agencies of this scale, though specific details would require direct inquiry. Honeylegal.co.uk Reviews

Are there any resources for understanding local areas on Howards.co.uk?

Yes, the Howards.co.uk blog features a “Living in…” series of articles that provide insights into various local areas like Norwich, Lowestoft, and Great Yarmouth, covering amenities, lifestyle, and transport.

What makes Howards.co.uk a “leading” agent?

Howards.co.uk positions itself as a leading agent due to its long-standing history since 1926, its deep roots and multiple branches in the vibrant communities of Norfolk and North Suffolk, and its comprehensive range of property services.