AN expanding online estate agency Purplebricks.com has moved into Yorkshire where it says it will challenge traditional high street operators.

It will offer home buyers and sellers in the region, including Bradford, a round-the-clock service and charges a flat fee for its services.

The business was launched by brothers Michael and Kenny Bruce, who have a combined 40 years' experience in the industry, in 2014. It has the backing of investors including Neil Woodford, founder of Woodford Investment Management, who invested £7million and ex-Capita chief executive Paul Pindar who has a major stake, alongside DN Capital, the global venture capital firm.

Purplebricks has seen a 49 per cent rise in the number of properties for sale on its website since December .

Michael Bruce, chief executive, said: “We are continuing our programme of growth with a launch for Purplebricks.com across Yorkshire, building towards being fully nationwide before the second half of 2015. The success we have had so far has proved that our model works, with thousands of people choosing to engage with the brand, not only because we cost less but because the service from our local property experts has been remarkable and to some, unbelievable."