Title

Selling & Letting Property in Cardiff
  • paragraph

    Best Estate Agent Cardiff For Over 170 years
    image cannot be displayed

    Hern and Crabtree is a local independent estate agent boasting four office locations in prime areas offering services across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.

    Specialising in residential sales and lettings, our passionate and knowledgeable team also offer asset management and property management services.

    With an incredibly experienced team, giving unrivalled and valuable expertise, we pride ourselves on delivering the very best customer service to our clients.

    Always focused on transparency, everything we do is built around the client and their needs, giving them peace of mind that the very best price has been achieved, all through a steady stream of communication.

    Our tailored and professional approach paired with our teams extensive and highly valued experience has made us a trusted brand relied upon by those across Cardiff. After all, we've been in the business for over 170 years.

Contact us

Title

Sell with Hern & Crabtree
  • paragraph

    How to sell a property?
    image cannot be displayed

    Step One - Planning

    Moving home is a big decision, so the first thing to do is decide what you want to achieve from your move and ensure it is financially possible.

    Now is the ideal time to make initial contact with your mortgage advisor to assess the cost of moving. If you need any assistance with this please let us know, we have expert advisors on hand to help compare the market for you. At this stage it's also a good idea to prepare your property in order to present it in the best possible way.

    It's never too early in the process to get some help from the experts about what they think about any jobs you might like to do to your property to prepare, and to seek their advice on your property and circumstances.

    (Tip- even if you aren't ready to move just yet you can still contact Hern & Crabtree now to arrange our expert to pop over and talk you through everything - we understand that everyone has questions that are unique to them and we are happy to help to answer where we can so that they can prepare properly).

    Step two - Market Appraisals

    If you haven't already enlisted the help of an Estate Agent, finding one is the next thing on the to do list. You will probably already have a good idea about which agent you would like to use but having a second or third opinion is often recommended. We also would recommend preparing a list of questions to ask your potential agent when they visit.

    (Tip- when you get estate agents to price your home, make sure they have demonstrative knowledge of comparable properties so you know that their price is realistic and achievable in order to avoid much disappointment later)

    Step three - Appointing An Estate Agent

    Appoint your chosen estate agent. When you are satisfied that you have found an agent who you can trust to assist you with your move you will need to formally instruct them. They will visit to measure, photograph and organise your Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

    Free tip- check the T&C's! Some agents will try to tie you to their recommended solicitors within their contract - we strongly suggest that you check the terms to see just how much commission they will take. Also look out for restrictive "sole selling rights" rather than "Sole Agency" and beware long tie-in sole agency periods.

    Step Four - Going Live To The Market

    Many agents will have different ideas and sellers will want to market in different ways. Our recommended approach typically culminates in a viewing launch after a period of intense marketing. Our strategy is to give your property maximum exposure and offer it to the entire market of potential buyers so that by the time offers come in you'll have complete peace of mind about your decision whether to accept or decline them. Of course, not every seller wants to have a viewing launch so it will be a seller's decision on how, if and when the launch may happen. There are many nuances in our approach that we feel also add great value to a seller - for more information about how we achieve the very best for our clients please contact us today!

    Free tip- make sure your agent has a transparent marketing plan so you can be sure that your sale is going to be properly handled.

    Step Five - Accepting An Offer

    Accepting an offer. Depending on how thorough your agent's approach has been, by this stage you should have total confidence that you are accepting the right offer for you. You should have found the person who will proceed in-line with your timescales, whether that might be someone who can move quickly, or someone who is willing to wait. Your agent will do all the background checks and clarify any special conditions- and should be done properly do avoid misunderstanding once the sale is in progression.

    Free Tip- offer acceptance is subject to contract so if things do go wrong or if you have any nasty surprises, at this stage you are not obligated to sell or move out.

    Step Six - Completing The Chain

    Complete the chain! Also known as finding your next home! If you have not already done so, this is the time to go house hunting and offer on the one you have been dreaming about! It may well be that you've had your eye on something and at this point, because you have a buyer, you should now be in a position to secure the property subject to contract. If you are not buying on or have no related sale, it's full steam ahead! If you haven't found, you should be in conversations with your agent who will ensure communications continue with all parties to keep everyone updated and happy.

    Free tip- this part can be one of the most stressful. Many people don't want to arrive at this stage without having already found their next home. Providing the communication is good throughout your buyer will understand your circumstances and adapt to it. There is no absolute right or wrong order to doing things- we think it can be a risky approach waiting to find a home before finding a buyer on yours because you might miss out- but if that is the situation you are in we will always to absolutely everything we can to help you find a buyer as quickly as possible if it means securing a related purchase for you.

    Step Seven - Instructing a Solicitor & Mortgage Application

    Instruct solicitor and surveyor and apply for your mortgage if required. Once you have accepted an offer and the chain is complete it is time to appoint solicitors and apply for your mortgage. Hern & Crabtree are happy to recommend solicitors who we find are always very good and unlike many other agents we will do so in an impartial way- we recommend solicitors who are very good, rather than ones who will pay us for saying that they are.

    Free tip- when signing up to a solicitor on recommendation, make sure you check the small print- many agents will take a significant commission for their recommendation which is not something we would ever do at H&C!

    Step Eight - Sales Progression

    Sales progression. While the solicitors undertake searches, correspond with enquires and replies, the surveyors send their reports and findings, the mortgage applications get under way and respective property sellers and buyers revisit and raise issues and get quotes for works, it would be an understatement to say that an estate agents' role is merely only helpful during this period. It only takes one cog to stop working and the entire chain can fail.

    At Hern and Crabtree we have a highly knowledgeable, experienced, dedicated (and at times ferocious!) sales progression manager to help to ensure things happen as they should. Our Sales Progression Manager, Jan Street, receives more gifts and thanks from our clients than anyone else in our company- and that mean a lot of chocolate for the rest of us too! At this stage it can feel like things are out of your control, and to an extent they are. However, with someone like Jan on your side and keeping you informed, your stress levels should be kept as low as possible.

    Free tip- when choosing an agent make sure you have a reputable estate agent who keeps the sale ticking along and who will you updated.

    Step Nine - Exchange Of Contracts

    Exchange of contracts. Once all mortgage offers are out and contracts are signed the solicitors involved will exchange contracts- this in effect is when there is a legal obligation to complete the transaction and this is when the move/ completion day is fixed.

    (Free Tip, make sure you appoint an agent who will keep you advised on when to expect exchange. H&C have a dedicated sales progression manager who is priceless when it comes to having vital support and help trying to get to this point)

    Step Ten - Legal Completion / Moving Day

    Moving day! This is the day legal completion takes place. Unless otherwise agreed, you will only be able to collect the keys for your new property once all funds are transferred and the seller's solicitor confirms that they have received funds in full.

    (Free Tip- don't forger the boring bits! Once you have your keys for your new property it's time to "dot the i's" by reading the meters, notifying suppliers, setting up mail redirecting, etc-

Contact us

Title

Buy with us.
  • paragraph

    Start your property search today!
    image cannot be displayed

    Buying Process

    Step One -Planning

    Moving home is a big decision, so the first thing to do is decide what you want to achieve from your move and if it is financially possible. Now is the ideal time to make initial contact with your mortgage advisor to assess the cost of moving - Hern and Crabtree have teamed up with MT Polo financial advisors who can help you find the best mortgage deal.

    At this stage it's also a good idea to prepare your property for selling if you have a property you would need to sell in order to buy. It's never too early in the process to get some help from the experts about what they think about any jobs you might like to do to your property to prepare, and to seek their advice on your property and circumstances.

    (Tip- even if you aren't ready to move just yet you can still contact Hern & Crabtree now to arrange one of our experts to pop over and talk you through everything - we understand that everyone has questions that are unique to them and we are happy to help to answer where we can do they can prepare properly).

    Step two - Find a buyer for your home & register your details with agents

    Find a buyer for your home. The best agent to do this will have a bespoke approach that will be tailored to suit you and your property. The best estate agent for you will help to realise the best price for your home, help you find a property and listen to you.

    If you don't need to sell to buy then it's still a good idea to contact your local estate agent to register your details, along with your list of requirements for your new home. We will listen to you about what is important to you, exactly what you want and when we have properties that are suitable for you, we'll get in touch to tell you all about them!

    (Free Tip- when you get estate agents to price your home, make sure they demonstrate knowledge of comparable properties so you know their price is realistic and achievable to avoid disappointment later)

    Step three - Make An Offer

    Make an offer. Once you have found the ideal place for you now is the first nerve wracking part- trying to secure it. Factor in spending on any work you need to do, but remember that work might already have been allowed for in the asking price. For guidance on what to offer it's probably best to pick up the phone and speak to the selling agent who will be able to give insight on that particular property.

    (Free tip- the seller of the property is more than likely to want to hear that you love their home and are impressed with what they have done and or the potential or something to flatter them!).

    Step four - Offer Agreed

    Offer agreed, now it's real! At this stage all parties involved will instruct solicitors who will work on the legalities, preparing contracts, applying for searches, raising and replying to queries (enquiries). At the same time the mortgage application runs its course via underwriters and requisite financial checks. This step can vary greatly in timescales depending on how many properties and mortgages are involved in the chain and if any unforeseen issues come up.

    (free tip- use a good solicitor & estate agent to make sure all stays on track- cheap is not always cheerful!)

    Step five - Surveys

    As soon as your offer is accepted this is the time get a survey. If you are having a mortgage the lender will often wish to send out a valued to ensure the property value is enough to secure their loan against it. You often can upgrade or have a separate survey. Likewise, if you are planning improvements now is the time to get quotes ready.

    (Free tip- as a general rule the older the house the more in-depth the survey might be- your surveyor should be able to match the type of survey to suit the property).

    Step six - Agree Moving Dates

    Agree moving dates. Once your solicitor is satisfied that they are ready they will contact you to discuss moving day! If there is a long chain it is often helpful to be a bit flexible in order to find a suitable day that suits everyone in the chain.

    (Free tip- it's a good idea to agree rough dates for moving at offer-stage so the whole chain is aiming for the same time to avoid any costly last-minute misunderstandings)

    Step seven - Exchange Of Contracts

    Exchange of contracts. Once all mortgage offers are out and contracts are signed the solicitors involved will exchange contracts- this in effect is when there is a legal obligation to complete the transaction and this is when the move/ completion day is fixed.

    (Free Tip, make sure you appoint an agent who will keep you advised on when to expect exchange. H&C have a dedicated sales progression manager who is priceless when it comes to having vital support and help trying to get to this point)

    Step eight - Completion / Moving Day

    Move! This is the day legal completion takes place. Unless otherwise agreed, you will only be able to collect the keys for your new property once all funds are transferred and the seller's solicitor confirms that they have received funds in full.

    (Free Tip- moving day can be stressful with lots to do, we recommend trying to ensure that all funds are applied for early on in the day to prevent delays later on).

    Step nine - Crossing the T's

    The boring bits! Once you have your keys for your new property it's time to "dot the i's" by reading the meters, notifying suppliers, setting up mail redirecting, etc-

    (Free tip, please see our check-list for a break-down)

    Step ten - Relax

    Congratulations! You are now the proud owner of your new home! Take some time out to enjoy settling in and maybe take a holiday. With the right estate agent, solicitor and mortgage professional the whole process will have been as stress free as possible and you will feel able to relax in your new dream home.

    (Free Tip, while keeping costs to a minimum is important, spending in the right places can make your move a much smoother experience so make sure you use a recommended estate agent who understand that this process is a vital part of moving and will keep things going when they could otherwise go wrong).

Contact us

Title

New Homes
  • service


    Imagine... High specifications, pristine décor, energy efficiency, and space tailored for modern living.

    Do you dream of being the first to live in your brand new home?

    Following huge investment in the region, lots of stunning new-build properties and developments have sprung up in Cardiff and South Wales. So whether you're a first-time buyer, a growing family, an investor, or planning to downsize, you're spoilt for choice!

    But how do you discover everything that's available, without driving for miles around the region?

    The simple answer is to visit our new homes showroom in Cathedral Road. It's dedicated to new-build properties. You'll find our knowledgeable team on hand to give you expert advice. And with their friendly service and reliable communication, you'll get the information and ideas you need to make the right decision.

    • Want to buy 'off plan' or a recently completed build? We'll walk you through the new home's buying process and show you which properties and developments match your needs.
    • Want to invest? We can advise on projected rental earnings from different developments and help you pick a buy-to-let property that delivers your investment objectives.
    • "Buy land - they're not making any more." - Mark Twain. If you are looking to buy or sell land, we want to hear from you!

    What's more, due to our close links with the region's biggest developers, you can rely on us to keep you fully informed with what's up and coming in the area.

    You'll even discover some fantastic early bird discounts and incentives.


    Not convinced about new-build - yet?

    If you've got your heart set on a Victorian or Georgian character property, don't dismiss new-build until you've had a proper look.

    While new homes have been criticised over the years, the latest properties are built with modern living in mind.

    Just look at all the benefits a brand new property offers you:

    • You'll buy from a developer - not a chain and so you could move in quicker
    • If you're buying a flat, apartment, or other leasehold property, you'll find lease lengths are often longer than older properties
    • New-build properties usually come with a 2-10 year warranty. So if things do go wrong, you're covered
    • There's no need to worry about outdated wiring, poorly maintained plumbing, damp, or other issues that can plague older properties - everything will be in pristine condition and of modern specification
    • You've got a blank canvas on which you can make your mark - and often there's a chance to choose appliances, colour schemes, and the finishing touches
    • New-build home are energy efficient - you could save significantly on heating and lighting
    • Developments often come with extensive facilities and modern amenities such as on-site gyms, swimming pools, spas, and even new schools. Just imagine the lifestyle you could enjoy...

    Ready to view your new-build options?

    It's easy to start your new-build search. Simply book an appointment or pop in for a chat.

    We're open Monday to Friday between 9am-6pm and until 5pm on Saturdays.

    Once we've met and understood your requirements, we'll keep you informed as new opportunities come to market.

Contact us

Title

Meet the team at Heath
  • Introduction

    BEST INDEPENDENT ESTATE AGENT IN CARDIFF
    image cannot be displayed

    Hern and Crabtree is a local independent estate agent boasting four office locations in prime areas offering services across Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan.

    Specialising in residential sales and lettings, our passionate and knowledgeable team also offer asset management and property management services.

    With an incredibly experienced team, giving unrivaled and valuable expertise, we pride ourselves on delivering the very best customer service to our clients.

    Always focused on transparency, everything we do is built around the client and their needs, giving them peace of mind that the very best price has been achieved, all through a steady stream of communication.

    Our tailored and professional approach paired with our teams extensive and highly valued experience has made us a trusted brand relied upon by those across Cardiff. After all, we've been in the business for over 170 years.

  • Team Member

    image cannot be displayed
    Mike Baillie - Director & Heath Manager
    Mike Baillie is a Director at Hern & Crabtree and also the manager of our Heath branch. Having joined us in 2012 from another company in Cardiff where he spent 5 years, Mike first managed our Llandaff branch for 8 years before moving over to Heath. Mike says: "There isn't solely one thing that makes me love what I do, I think that's the beauty of it, there are many reasons why I have such a passion for my job. After fourteen years as an estate agent I always feel very lucky that I'm able to help people with their move and when I get to build long term relationships with those clients and their families. I enjoy the variety each day brings, the challenges that emerge and being able to work alongside some of the best estate agents I've ever had the pleasure to meet. Outside of work I'll usually be travelling somewhere new. I love to explore places I've not been. Hiking and photography have become passions. Last year was a 40k three-day hike to Machu Pichu in Peru followed by Californian Road trip down Route 1 along the west coast. I also like to cook, read and spend time with my friends and family."
  • Team Member

    image cannot be displayed
    Jane Staffer- Sales Negotiator
    Jane Staffer is a Sales Negotiator at our Heath branch, with a 12-year background in working in the property arena. Jane says: "Customer service is a massive focus of mine, so I was drawn to working for Hern & Crabtree as they are well known for customer service being their number one priority, also their brand and advertising is very high end. Coming from Llandaff North, an area we sell many properties in, I absolutely love living overlooking Hailey park and try to get my two children out over there as much as possible!"
  • Team Member

    image cannot be displayed
    Amberley Haynes - Sales Negotiator
    Amberly Haynes is a Sales Negotiator at our Heath branch and brings with her experience, organisation and creativity, having worked at family run agency previously and achieving a degree in Advertising Design. Amberly says: "Hern & Crabtree isn't just a great place to work, it's a community of like-minded, driven and vibrant individuals whose combined experience means you're in the right hands when it comes to finding a property. No day is the same and I love helping people find their perfect match in a home. Having come from a family run agency with experience in sales, rentals, and a degree in advertising, making sure your home gets the right exposure is something I'm passionate about. Outside of work I can usually be found exploring the fantastic Welsh countryside and its beaches or illustrating wildlife."
  • Team Member

    image cannot be displayed
    Rhodri Humphreys - Area Manager
    Rhodri Humphreys is the Area Manager at Hern & Crabtree and has been with us since 2015, joining us after a 15-year spell at a competitor Agency. Rhodri was brought into the business to bring more structure, without spoiling the key elements that helped to build our excellent reputation. Rhodri says: "I truly love being part of the H&C team. We have a special blend of great people with lots of experience, knowledge and passion. No two days are the same in this job, whether it be fixing a crisis, a funny occurrence or getting a difficult sale over the line with people happily moved into their new home. We really get to know our clients during a potentially stressful time and I think our role helping people during this time is invaluable and easily underestimated. People often think Estate Agency is just about the property, I think it is all about the people. In my spare time I love spending time with my wife and daughter. I also like to read and enjoy sports, especially rugby (Llandaff RFC!) although I'm very much more an amateur golfer now, and enjoy spending time amongst the trees at Whitchurch Golf Club"
  • Team Member

    image cannot be displayed
    Lance Robertson - Lettings Manager
    Lance Robertson is our Lettings Manager at Hern & Crabtree and joined us in October 2015, having worked in the lettings industry for over 15 years. Lance says: "What I enjoy most is being part of such a well-established and proud brand that offers quality in everything we do. Here in the Lettings Department we pride ourselves in giving both Landlords and Tenants a premium service that ensures that the rental process is professional, smooth, accurate and ultimately delivers to all our clients expectations. Previously in my career, I lived and worked on the Costa Del Sol in Spain establishing and running my own holiday lettings business. This was truly a great experience for five years of my life and even now in my current role I occasionally am required to use my now slightly rusty Spanish to converse with clients here in the UK! When not in work, I love spending quality time with my partner Bernadette and my two daughters Olivia and Daisy - nothing we like more than a lovely sunny walk along a beach when the UK weather permits!'
  • Team Member

    image cannot be displayed
    Nigel John - Managing Director
    Nigel started with H&C as the managing director in summer of 1998. Having gained many years in the property industry, the opportunity cake to revitalise Cardiff's longest standing residential estate agency, and this was one challenge not to be missed. Today, Nigel's unique visionary outlook and entrepreneurial skills, alongside the innovational and hard working H&C family have placed the company as Cardiff's best estate agency. Nigel is known for thinking outside the box and will always go the extra mile for clients. Alongside successfully managing a dedicated and close-knit team, in his spare time Nigel can always be found socialising, exploring the globe, and keeping fit with the help of his adopted husky Rain.
Contact us

    Title

    Reviews Of Hern and Crabtree Estate Agents
    • Introduction

      image cannot be displayed
      We are really proud of what people have to say about us when they come to writing a review. We've been regarded as one of Cardiff's best estate agents and have been established for over 170 years. Don't just take our word for it, check out the Trust Pilot, Google and Facebook links below for all of our customer's feedback and reviews.
      Trust Pilot:
      https://uk.trustpilot.com/review/www.hern-crabtree.co.uk
      Google:
      https://bit.ly/googlereviewheath
      Facebook:
      https://www.facebook.com/pg/hernandcrabtree/reviews/

    Testimonials from Sellers

    • Seller Testimonial

      image cannot be displayed
      An enormous thank you
      I have recently sold and purchased a property via Hern & Crabtree and could not speak highly enough of the staff who were all professional, reliable and informed. A particular mention to Mike, Owen and Denise who guided us seamlessly through the early stages. An enormous thank you to Jan who dealt so efficiently with the Sales Progression. Jan personally stayed in touch with me daily during this process and could not have been more supportive. Superb customer service skills. Well done everyone at Hern & Crabtree - we are now happily in our new home. Thank you. Neil & Family.

    Testimonials from Buyers

    • Buyer Testimonial

      image cannot be displayed
      The help and honesty we received was refreshing
      After putting offers in with other estate agents in Cardiff we felt that we couldn't trust them and they were just looking to make money off you as quick as possible.The help and honesty we received from the Heath office was refreshing and made the process of buying a lot less stressful and genuine.Would recommend buying a house with this agent over the others we dealt with in Cardiff. - Harry Davies - March 2020
    Contact us

    Disclaimer

    The content on this Microsite has been uploaded by Hern & Crabtree, Heath. Rightmove Group Limited makes no warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of the content, any queries should be sent directly to Hern & Crabtree, Heath. Where properties are displayed on a page, this comprises a property advertisement. Rightmove Group Limited who operate the website Rightmove.co.uk makes no warranty as to the accuracy or completeness of the advertisement or any linked or associated information, and Rightmove has no control over the content. These property advertisements do not constitute property particulars. The information is provided and maintained by Hern & Crabtree, Heath. Please contact the agent directly to obtain any information which may be available under the terms of The Energy Performance of Buildings (Certificates and Inspections) (England and Wales) Regulations 2007 or the Home Report if in relation to a residential property in Scotland and if you have any query over the content.

    *Guide Price: An indication of a seller's minimum expectation at auction and given as a “Guide Price” or a range of “Guide Prices”. This is not necessarily the figure a property will sell for and is subject to change prior to the auction.

    Reserve Price: Each auction property will be subject to a “Reserve Price” below which the property cannot be sold at auction. Normally the “Reserve Price” will be set within the range of “Guide Prices” or no more than 10% above a single “Guide Price.”

    Auction Fees: The purchase of this property may include associated fees not listed here, as it is to be sold via auction. To find out more about the fees associated with this property please call Hern & Crabtree, Heath on +442920620202.