Based on looking at the website, Cpshomes.co.uk appears to be a legitimate estate agency operating in Cardiff, UK, specializing in property sales, rentals, and management. Their online presence highlights services for vendors, landlords, buyers, and renters, emphasizing property listings, marketing, and client support. While the platform itself seems designed for the permissible activity of real estate transactions, it’s crucial for users to exercise due diligence in all financial dealings. Engaging in any transaction, especially those involving property and finance, requires careful consideration to ensure all aspects align with ethical principles and are free from elements like Riba interest, which is strongly discouraged. It’s always best to seek out financing options that are transparent and free from interest-based structures, promoting a more equitable and permissible approach to homeownership and investment.
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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.
Cpshomes.co.uk Review & First Look
Upon initial review, Cpshomes.co.uk presents itself as a professional and well-established estate agency in Cardiff.
The website has a clean, user-friendly interface that prioritizes property listings for both sale and rent.
The immediate impression is one of transparency and customer focus, with clear calls to action for various user types.
- User Experience UX: The navigation is intuitive, allowing quick access to sales, rentals, and specific branches. The “My Favourites” feature, where users can ‘heart’ properties, is a smart addition for personalizing the search experience.
- Visual Appeal: The site features high-quality property images and videos, which is crucial in real estate. The layout is uncluttered, making it easy to focus on the essential information.
- Initial Trust Indicators:
- Awards: They prominently display a “Rated ‘exceptional’ two years running” badge, citing a gold award at the Best Estate Agent Guide awards. This provides a strong external validation of their service quality.
- Testimonials: Numerous customer testimonials are featured directly on the homepage, offering social proof and positive feedback from vendors, landlords, and renters.
- Contact Information: Multiple contact numbers and email addresses for different departments Lettings, Sales, Maintenance, Accounts are readily available, suggesting accessibility and organized operations. Physical branch addresses are also listed.
Cpshomes.co.uk Cons
While the website appears well-designed and functional, it’s important to consider potential drawbacks or areas where users should exercise caution, especially given the financial nature of real estate transactions.
- Reliance on Conventional Financing: As a standard estate agency, Cpshomes.co.uk primarily facilitates transactions within the conventional financial system. This inherently involves interest-based mortgages and loans Riba for most property purchases. This is a significant concern for those seeking to avoid such transactions due to ethical considerations.
- Lack of Halal Finance Options: The website does not explicitly mention or promote any Sharia-compliant financing options, such as Murabaha or Ijara contracts, which are interest-free alternatives for property acquisition. This omission means individuals seeking ethical financial solutions will need to look elsewhere for their funding.
- Limited Transparency on Fees: While services are outlined, explicit details on all fees and charges for vendors, landlords, buyers, and renters are not immediately obvious on the homepage. Users would likely need to contact them directly or delve deeper into specific service agreements.
- Hidden Costs: Like many agencies, there might be various fees associated with viewings, tenant referencing, property management, or legal processes that are not upfront. Always inquire about a comprehensive breakdown of all potential costs.
- Geographical Limitation: The services are clearly focused on Cardiff and its surrounding areas, as indicated by their branch locations Roath, Cathays. For users outside this specific region, Cpshomes.co.uk would not be a viable option.
- Standard Industry Practices: Being a conventional estate agent, their processes and advice will align with mainstream property market practices, which may not always prioritize ethical considerations that go beyond legal compliance.
- No Explicit Ethical Framework: There’s no mention of an ethical framework or commitment to specific values beyond general good business practice, which might be a consideration for users with particular moral or religious guidelines.
Cpshomes.co.uk Alternatives
For individuals seeking to buy, sell, or rent property while adhering to ethical financial principles, exploring alternatives that specifically cater to these needs is crucial. The primary concern with conventional estate agencies is their integration with Riba interest-based finance.
- Halal Finance Providers:
- Islamic Banks and Financial Institutions: These institutions specialize in Sharia-compliant financing products like Murabaha cost-plus financing, Ijara leasing, and Musharaka Mutanaqisah diminishing partnership.
- Examples in the UK: Al Rayan Bank formerly Islamic Bank of Britain, Gatehouse Bank. These banks offer home purchase plans that avoid interest.
- How it works: Instead of a loan with interest, the bank buys the property and then sells it to the customer at a profit, paid in installments Murabaha, or leases it to the customer with rent payments, gradually transferring ownership Ijara and Musharaka Mutanaqisah.
- Islamic Banks and Financial Institutions: These institutions specialize in Sharia-compliant financing products like Murabaha cost-plus financing, Ijara leasing, and Musharaka Mutanaqisah diminishing partnership.
- Direct Property Sales/Rentals:
- Private Sales For Sale By Owner – FSBO: Platforms like Rightmove or Zoopla allow private listings, though these still require direct negotiation for financing. This option cuts out agency fees but requires more effort from the seller.
- Online Property Portals for Private Rentals: Websites where landlords can list properties directly, connecting with tenants without agency involvement. This can reduce fees for both parties.
- Ethical Property Co-operatives/Funds:
- While less common for individual residential purchases, some co-operative models or ethical investment funds focus on community ownership or sustainable property development that aligns with broader ethical principles, avoiding speculative or exploitative practices.
- Community-Based Housing Initiatives:
- Exploring local community land trusts or housing associations that operate on non-profit models and focus on affordable, ethical housing solutions. These might offer alternatives to the conventional market.
- Property Investment via Sukuk Islamic Bonds:
- For investment purposes, rather than direct property purchase, Sukuk offer a Sharia-compliant alternative to conventional bonds, representing ownership in tangible assets and generating returns from legitimate, ethical activities, avoiding interest.
When considering any property transaction, the key is to prioritize transparency, equity, and the avoidance of Riba. Always conduct thorough research into any financial product or service to ensure it aligns with your ethical and financial objectives.
How to Engage with Cpshomes.co.uk If you still choose to
Even if you choose to interact with a conventional estate agency like Cpshomes.co.uk for their property listing and local market expertise, it’s crucial to understand how to navigate the process while being mindful of potential ethical considerations, particularly regarding financing.
For Buyers/Renters:
- Property Search: Use their website to browse properties for sale or rent in Cardiff. Their filtering options for bedrooms, price, and property type are standard and effective.
- Setting Up Alerts: Utilize the “Email alerts” feature to be notified of new properties that match your criteria. This can save time and keep you updated on the fast-moving Cardiff market.
- Scheduling Viewings: Contact their sales or lettings teams via the provided phone numbers or email to book viewings. Be prompt in your requests, especially for desirable properties.
- Due Diligence:
- Financial Planning External: If you are a buyer, secure your Sharia-compliant financing before making an offer. Do not rely on conventional mortgage advice from the agency if you are avoiding interest. Work with an Islamic bank or halal finance provider independently.
- Property Condition: During viewings, thoroughly inspect the property. Don’t hesitate to ask detailed questions about its condition, age of appliances, and any recent renovations.
- Legal Review: Once an offer is accepted for buyers or tenancy agreed for renters, ensure all contracts are reviewed by an independent solicitor or legal advisor who can ensure your rights are protected and that no hidden interest clauses are present.
- Negotiation: The agency acts on behalf of the seller/landlord. You can negotiate on price or terms, but remember their primary duty is to their client.
- Communication: Maintain clear and concise communication with the agency staff. Document important conversations and agreements.
For Sellers/Landlords:
- Valuation Request: Contact Cpshomes.co.uk for a property valuation if you’re looking to sell or for rental appraisal if you’re a landlord. They offer a “FREE guide to new EPC regulations” and advice on presenting your property.
- Marketing & Listing: If you proceed, they will handle professional photography, video tours, and listing your property on their website and major property portals like Rightmove, Zoopla – though not explicitly stated, this is standard practice for UK agencies.
- Tenant/Buyer Sourcing: They will manage enquiries, conduct viewings, and screen potential tenants or buyers. For landlords, they handle referencing and often lease agreements.
- Transparency with Tenants: Ensure all terms are clear and fair to potential tenants, avoiding any exploitative clauses.
- Property Management for Landlords: Cpshomes.co.uk offers full property management services, as indicated by testimonials. This includes rent collection, maintenance coordination, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Maintenance Reporting: They have a clear “Report maintenance issue” system on their website, which is beneficial for tenants and landlords.
- Ethical Considerations for Landlords: When setting rents and managing properties, strive for fairness and avoid excessive increases or predatory practices. Provide good quality, safe housing for tenants.
By understanding their processes and integrating your own ethical financial planning, you can potentially leverage the local market expertise of Cpshomes.co.uk while staying true to your principles.
Cpshomes.co.uk Pricing
Cpshomes.co.uk, like most estate agencies, does not publicly display a detailed price list for their services directly on their homepage.
This is standard practice in the industry, as fees can vary based on the type of service, property value, and specific agreements.
However, based on common industry models in the UK, we can infer their pricing structures:
For Sellers:
- Sales Commission: This is typically a percentage of the final sale price of the property.
- Common Range: In the UK, estate agency fees for selling property usually range from 0.75% to 3% of the sale price, plus VAT Value Added Tax.
- Factors Influencing Cost:
- Service Level: Full-service agencies offering extensive marketing, negotiation, and progression management often charge higher percentages.
- Property Value: High-value properties might have slightly lower percentage rates due to the higher absolute fee generated.
- Market Conditions: In a competitive market, agencies might be more flexible with their rates.
- Payment Model: Fees are almost always paid upon successful completion of the sale. Some agencies might offer a “no sale, no fee” guarantee, which is generally standard.
- Additional Costs Potential:
- Energy Performance Certificate EPC: Legally required. While they offer a “FREE guide to new EPC regulations,” the cost of obtaining one is usually borne by the seller if they don’t already have one. Prices typically range from £50 to £100.
- Professional Photography/Video: While often included in the commission, some premium services might incur extra charges. The testimonials mention high-quality photos/videos, suggesting this is part of their standard package.
- Marketing Upgrades: Enhanced listings on portals, premium brochures, or specific advertising campaigns might be optional extras.
For Landlords Lettings & Management:
- Letting Only Service:
- Fee: Typically a fixed fee or a percentage of the first month’s rent e.g., 50% to 100% of one month’s rent, plus VAT.
- Includes: Marketing, tenant sourcing, referencing, drawing up tenancy agreements.
- Rent Collection Service:
- Fee: A percentage of the monthly rent e.g., 5% to 8%, plus VAT.
- Includes: Letting only services plus collecting rent and forwarding it to the landlord.
- Fully Managed Service:
- Fee: A higher percentage of the monthly rent e.g., 10% to 15%, plus VAT.
- Includes: All letting and rent collection services, plus handling maintenance issues, property inspections, legal compliance, and tenant queries. Testimonials suggest CPS Homes offers comprehensive management.
- Additional Landlord Fees Potential:
- Inventory Check-in/Check-out: Charges for professional inventory reports.
- Deposit Registration: Fees for registering the tenant’s deposit with a government-approved scheme.
- Renewal Fees: Charges for renewing a tenancy agreement.
- EPC, Gas Safety Certificates, Electrical Safety Reports: These are legal requirements for landlords and incur separate costs.
For Buyers & Renters:
-
Buyers: Generally, buyers do not pay fees directly to the seller’s estate agent in the UK. Their costs are typically related to stamp duty, legal fees, and survey costs.
-
Renters: Since the Tenant Fees Act 2019 in England, most upfront fees to tenants like referencing or administration fees have been banned. Renters can only be charged for:
- Rent
- Refundable tenancy deposit capped at 5 weeks’ rent
- Refundable holding deposit capped at 1 week’s rent
- Default fees e.g., for late rent, lost keys
- Changes to tenancy capped at £50
- Early termination of tenancy.
CPS Homes, as a reputable agency, should comply with these regulations.
Recommendation: For precise pricing, it is essential to contact Cpshomes.co.uk directly and request a personalized quote based on your specific property and service needs. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of all potential fees and charges upfront to avoid any surprises.
Understanding Property Market Trends in Cardiff Cpshomes.co.uk’s Focus
Cpshomes.co.uk operates within the Cardiff property market, a dynamic and often competitive environment.
Understanding the broader trends in this area provides context for the services they offer and the challenges buyers, sellers, and landlords face.
Key Trends in the Cardiff Property Market:
- Steady Price Growth: Cardiff has seen consistent property price growth over the past decade, often outperforming some other major UK cities. As of late 2023/early 2024, average house prices in Cardiff hover around £270,000 to £290,000, though this varies significantly by area e.g., Roath, Cathays, Pontcanna, Cyncoed.
- Data Point: According to the Land Registry, Cardiff’s average house price increased by approximately 2.5% in the 12 months to October 2023, while over five years, it has risen by over 20%.
- Strong Rental Demand: Cardiff is a major university city with a large student population Cardiff University, Cardiff Metropolitan University, University of South Wales nearby and a growing professional workforce. This drives high demand for rental properties, particularly in areas like Cathays and Roath, where Cpshomes.co.uk has branches.
- Rental Yields: Rental yields in Cardiff can be attractive for investors, often ranging from 4% to 6%, depending on property type and location.
- EPC Regulations Impact: The “FREE guide to new EPC regulations” offered by Cpshomes.co.uk is highly relevant. New government targets aim for rental properties to have an EPC rating of C or above by 2025 for new tenancies, and all existing tenancies by 2028. This is a significant factor for landlords, potentially requiring investment in property upgrades.
- Impact on Landlords: Many landlords are now assessing their portfolios and budgeting for necessary energy efficiency improvements.
- First-Time Buyer Challenges: Despite growth, affordability remains a challenge for first-time buyers, especially with rising interest rates though this is more relevant to conventional financing, which is to be avoided where possible.
- New Developments: Cardiff continues to see significant new residential developments, particularly in the city centre and regenerated waterfront areas e.g., Cardiff Bay. These developments add to the housing stock but also put pressure on existing infrastructure.
- Student Market Specialization: Given their branch locations, Cpshomes.co.uk likely has significant expertise in the student rental market, which has its own unique dynamics regarding tenancy lengths, property types, and management requirements. Testimonials from landlords managing student properties support this.
Implications for Cpshomes.co.uk Users:
- For Sellers: In a growing market, sellers can often achieve good prices, but effective marketing which Cpshomes.co.uk seems to emphasize with professional photos/videos is key to standing out.
- For Buyers/Renters: Competition can be stiff. Being prepared e.g., having financing secured for buyers, clear documentation for renters is crucial for securing desired properties.
Ensuring Ethical Practices in Property Transactions
When dealing with significant financial transactions like property, ensuring all practices align with ethical guidelines is paramount.
While Cpshomes.co.uk functions within a conventional framework, individuals can still strive for ethical conduct.
Avoiding Riba Interest in Financing:
- Prioritize Halal Financing: This is the most crucial step. As discussed, avoid conventional mortgages that involve interest. Instead, seek out reputable Islamic financial institutions that offer Sharia-compliant home purchase plans Murabaha, Ijara, Musharaka Mutanaqisah. These structures are designed to avoid interest and promote equity.
- Cash Purchases: If financially feasible, buying property outright with cash is the simplest way to avoid any interest-based transactions.
- Saving and Investing Ethically: Plan your finances by saving through permissible means and investing in halal ventures to accumulate wealth for future property purchases.
Transparency and Fairness:
- Demand Full Disclosure: Whether you are buying, selling, or renting, insist on complete transparency regarding all fees, terms, and conditions. Do not proceed if anything is unclear or feels deceptive.
- Fair Negotiation: Engage in fair and honest negotiations. Avoid deceptive tactics or attempts to exploit the other party’s vulnerabilities.
- Equitable Contracts: Ensure all contracts sale agreements, tenancy agreements are equitable for all parties involved. Avoid clauses that are unduly harsh or exploitative.
- Honest Representation:
- For Sellers/Landlords: Accurately represent the property’s condition and any known issues. Do not conceal defects. Provide honest answers to prospective buyers’ or tenants’ questions.
- For Buyers/Renters: Be truthful in your financial declarations and intentions.
Avoiding Scams and Financial Fraud:
- Verify Identity: Always verify the identity of the agency, agents, and any other parties involved. Check their registration with relevant bodies e.g., The Property Ombudsman, ARLA Propertymark.
- Secure Payments: Be extremely cautious with payment instructions. Verify bank details independently before transferring any large sums of money. Cyber fraud targeting property transactions is a significant risk.
- Independent Legal Advice: Always use an independent solicitor for conveyancing property transfer or reviewing tenancy agreements. Do not rely solely on the agency’s recommendations for legal services. Your solicitor’s duty is to you, not the agency.
- Beware of Pressure Tactics: Reputable agencies do not employ aggressive or high-pressure sales tactics. Take your time, do your research, and consult with trusted advisors before making any commitments.
- Check Reviews Beyond the Website: While Cpshomes.co.uk features positive reviews on their site, also check independent review platforms like Google Reviews, Trustpilot, or industry-specific forums for a broader perspective.
By adopting these ethical practices, individuals can navigate the property market with greater confidence, ensuring their transactions are not only legally sound but also morally upright.
Cpshomes.co.uk vs. Competitors in Cardiff
In the competitive Cardiff property market, Cpshomes.co.uk faces numerous competitors, both independent local agencies and larger national chains.
Understanding how they stack up can help in choosing the right agent for your needs.
Key Competitors in Cardiff:
- Hunters Estate Agents: A national brand with local branches, offering sales, lettings, and property management. Often known for a wide network and standardized processes.
- Moginie James: A prominent independent Cardiff agency, well-established and known for local expertise.
- Allen & Harris: Part of a larger national group Sequence Home, offering a comprehensive range of services.
- Jeffrey Ross: Another independent Cardiff agency with a strong local presence, particularly in certain areas.
- Cardiff Student Letting CSL: Specializes heavily in the student rental market, a segment where Cpshomes.co.uk also seems to have a strong footing.
Cpshomes.co.uk’s Differentiators Based on Website and Testimonials:
- Local Expertise & Longevity: They highlight being “exceptional two years running” and testimonials mention “nearly a decade” or “over 15 years” of using their services, suggesting deep roots and consistent performance in the Cardiff market. Their multiple branch locations Roath, Cathays reinforce this local focus.
- Strong Emphasis on Photography/Marketing: Numerous testimonials specifically praise their photographer Scott and the quality of property photos and videos. This is a significant advantage in attracting potential buyers/tenants in an online-first market.
- Client Communication & Support: Testimonials frequently mention “professional,” “prompt,” “communicate well,” and “kept updated at each stage.” This suggests a commitment to good customer service, which can be a common pain point with some agencies.
- Dedicated Teams: The clear contact points for Sales, Lettings, Maintenance, and Accounts indicate a structured organization with specialized teams, potentially leading to more efficient service delivery.
- Proactive Tenant Coaching: The “Helping tenants change strip lights” and “Our go-to advice for tenants when their…” news articles highlight a unique proactive approach to tenant support, which could be appealing to landlords seeking to reduce maintenance calls.
- Focus on Landlord Relationships: Many testimonials are from long-term landlords, praising their ability to find quality tenants quickly and manage properties effectively, including staying updated on legislation. This indicates a strong landlord-centric service.
How They Compare:
- Pricing: As mentioned, pricing is not public. Competitors will also have varying commission rates for sales and management fees for lettings. It’s crucial to get quotes from multiple agencies for comparison.
- Online Presence & Technology: Most reputable agencies in Cardiff will have a strong online presence and utilize major property portals. Cpshomes.co.uk appears to be on par with good digital marketing practices.
- Market Share: While Cpshomes.co.uk clearly has a significant presence, larger national chains or even other independent agencies might have a larger market share depending on the specific postcode or property type.
- Niche Specialization: Cpshomes.co.uk seems strong in both sales and student/professional lettings. Some competitors might specialize more heavily in one area e.g., CSL for students or a particular property segment e.g., luxury homes.
Recommendation: When choosing an estate agent, it’s advisable to interview 2-3 different agencies, including Cpshomes.co.uk. Compare their proposed marketing strategies, fees, local knowledge, and read their independent reviews to make an informed decision. For ethical financial considerations, remember to secure your funding through permissible channels regardless of the agency chosen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cpshomes.co.uk?
Cpshomes.co.uk is a real estate agency based in Cardiff, UK, specializing in property sales, rentals, and property management services for residential properties.
Where is Cpshomes.co.uk located?
Cpshomes.co.uk has two main branches in Cardiff: one in Roath 66 Albany Road, CF24 3RR and another in Cathays 34 Woodville Rd, CF24 4EA.
What services does Cpshomes.co.uk offer for sellers?
Cpshomes.co.uk offers services for sellers including property valuation, professional photography and videography, marketing and listing properties, and sales negotiation support.
What services does Cpshomes.co.uk offer for landlords?
For landlords, Cpshomes.co.uk provides tenant sourcing, referencing, rent collection, full property management, and maintenance issue reporting.
Does Cpshomes.co.uk help with property maintenance issues?
Yes, Cpshomes.co.uk has a dedicated maintenance department and an online system for reporting maintenance issues, as indicated by their website and client testimonials. Etherking.io Reviews
Are there testimonials available for Cpshomes.co.uk?
Yes, the Cpshomes.co.uk homepage features numerous positive testimonials from vendors, landlords, and renters, highlighting their service quality.
Has Cpshomes.co.uk won any awards?
Yes, Cpshomes.co.uk states they have been “Rated ‘exceptional’ two years running” and received a gold award at the Best Estate Agent Guide awards.
How can I contact Cpshomes.co.uk?
You can contact Cpshomes.co.uk via phone or email, with different numbers and addresses provided for Lettings, Sales, Maintenance, and Accounts departments. Their branch contact details are also listed.
Does Cpshomes.co.uk offer a free property valuation?
While not explicitly stated as “free” on the homepage, it is standard practice for estate agencies to offer complimentary property valuations for potential sellers or landlords. You would need to inquire directly.
What is the “My Favourites” feature on Cpshomes.co.uk?
The “My Favourites” feature allows users to save properties they are interested in by clicking a heart icon, enabling them to compare, map, and share their preferred listings. Morethanaccountants.co.uk Reviews
Does Cpshomes.co.uk provide information on EPC regulations?
Yes, Cpshomes.co.uk offers a “FREE guide to new EPC regulations” which covers changes coming in 2028 and expert recommendations for compliance.
Can I get email alerts for new properties from Cpshomes.co.uk?
Yes, by creating an account on Cpshomes.co.uk, you can sign up for email alerts to be notified about new properties that match your saved searches.
Does Cpshomes.co.uk deal with commercial properties?
Based on the website’s content, Cpshomes.co.uk primarily focuses on residential sales and lettings.
There is no clear indication of services for commercial properties.
What are the typical fees for selling a house with Cpshomes.co.uk?
Like most estate agents, Cpshomes.co.uk’s sales commission fees are not publicly displayed. Homearama.co.uk Reviews
They typically charge a percentage of the final sale price, plus VAT, paid upon completion. You would need to request a direct quote.
What are the typical fees for letting a property with Cpshomes.co.uk?
Fees for landlords typically vary based on the service level letting only, rent collection, or fully managed. These are usually a percentage of the monthly rent or a fixed fee, plus VAT, and are not publicly listed on their website.
Does Cpshomes.co.uk offer discounts or deals?
Their website states that registered account users can get “Exclusive discounts and deals that you would not otherwise even see,” suggesting there may be special offers for registered clients.
How does Cpshomes.co.uk help tenants?
Cpshomes.co.uk helps tenants by providing property listings, facilitating viewings, assisting with the application process, and offering advice and support for maintenance issues, as indicated by their “tenant coaching” articles.
What are the average property prices in Cardiff, the market Cpshomes.co.uk operates in?
Average house prices in Cardiff generally range from £270,000 to £290,000, though this varies by specific location and property type within the city. Teddyknowsbest.com Reviews
Can I share property lists with friends and family via Cpshomes.co.uk?
Yes, the “My Account” features allow users to “Share your lists” to send favourite properties to family or friends.
Does Cpshomes.co.uk offer online booking for viewings?
The website features a “Book viewing now” button, suggesting that online booking for property viewings is available or easily initiated through their platform.
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