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Published: 21 September 2025

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If you're looking for some pointers for selling your home during the autumn you’ve come to the right place.  We’ve compiled some tips that can help your property stand out in the market during the autumn. 

Setting the stage for a potential house buyer is crucial in making the right impressions. Remember, you’re not just selling a house, you’re selling a dream or a lifestyle.

Here at Acres Estate Agents we often see autumn as the time when more serious buyers get in touch. These are the ones who will want to see properties to actually move to – they won’t be the tyre-kickers Spring can often bring, just having a nose round to see if a move would be on the cards if they see “ a perfect home “, with no real intention to buy.

Organise early viewings

It can be more of a challenge for your house to stand out in the dark and as the days get shorter, evening viewings don’t always set the best first impression. Homes generally look more appealing during the daytime. 

It might be difficult to organise daytime viewings during the week as people are at work, so it’s a good idea to make time during the weekends to try and accommodate more potential buyers viewing. 

Ensure your house is well-lit

It can be challenging for natural lighting to brighten up your home during the autumn, to combat the issue, it can be worth investing in some nice lighting. For rooms with large windows, be sure to open all the blinds and curtains as nothing beats natural light. However, for rooms that don’t have the luxury of larger windows, be sure to ensure they are well-lit through other means.

Clean the outdoors of fallen leaves

If you’ve got trees and hedges around the garden, you’ll be aware of how much of a mess fallen leaves cause during the autumn. External house maintenance is always important, but even more so whilst you are trying to sell your property. 

Make use of the heating

As the days get shorter, the temperature starts to drop. The last thing you want during a house viewing is for your guests to feel uncomfortable due to being cold, so you’ll want to keep your house a cosy, a nice temperature can go a long way in creating a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere. 

Log burners / real or effect coal fire

Always as an appealing feature, have these lit to make a property feel like a home, and help your buyer imagine a cosy night in, within the heart of your home.

Stand out

If your property goes on the market in the Autumn, it’s more likely to get noticed, compared to the traditional Spring influx of properties to the market. This is particularly true when you see how our exceptional photography will show off your home to its best advantage.

We think it’s best to stand out from the crowd, and Autumn is the ideal time to do that.

Final thoughts

Whilst it can seem impossible to time the sale of your property to perfection, Autumn is a great selling time with buyers thinking of a new home for Christmas and of course, those ever-important school applications being submitted.

If you are looking to sell your property, then Autumn could well be the perfect time for you to sell up and move on.

Yes, Spring is often seen as the best time to sell, but we at Acres also find that autumn proves to be a Buoyant time in the Property Market.

What steps can you make to maximise the appeal?

The obvious one is the presentation of your property. Make sure your garden and the outside of your house deliver maximum curb appeal. It’s surprising what you don’t need so a quick dump run to get rid of the clutter always helps free up space. Ensure you do your research and price your home competitively. Most importantly, choose a good local agent who understands the area. Here at Acres, your local independent estate agents, being a market leader in the North Birmingham area we accordingly have an exceptional knowledge of the locality. This means understanding transport links, local schools, and amenities so that we can quickly show the right buyers the right properties. Make October the month you finally make the move you have always wanted to.

If you were thinking of writing Autumn off, stop. Think about it. Autumn could absolutely be the season for you to show your house off to a potential buyer.   If you would like to discuss selling your home, please get in touch with us This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call any of our busy, helpful teams/offices:

Four Oaks                              0121 323 3088

Sutton Coldfield                  0121 321 2101

Walmley                                 0121 313 2888

Great Barr                             0121 358 6222

Thank you for reading and your interest in Acres and our property for sale. 

Nigel & Jayne  Deekes – Acres Partners

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Published: 16 September 2025

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As the days grow shorter, the leaves turn golden and the nights draw in, autumn is one of the most atmospheric times of the year. It’s also when we naturally spend more time indoors, so now is the perfect opportunity to create a cosy, welcoming haven at home.

At Acres Estate Agents here in Sutton Coldfield, we see first-hand how the right touches can make a home more comfortable and also more appealing to prospective buyers. With energy efficiency and cost savings in mind, there are plenty of ways to keep your home snug without breaking the bank. Below we’ve gathered some of our favourite ideas – from simple décor tweaks to more practical upgrades – to help you transform your space this season.

Rugs – Simple Yet Impactful

Rugs remain a timeless favourite for adding warmth and personality. Whether your home features hard flooring or carpet, a rug can instantly bring softness underfoot and a sense of comfort. A boldly patterned or textured rug can act as a piece of “floor art,” creating a striking focal point.

Layering rugs – think a smaller patterned rug over a larger neutral base – creates a luxurious, deep-pile effect. It’s also a great way to zone open-plan spaces or add definition to a seating area. With thousands of styles, colours and price points available, there’s a rug for every room and budget.

Extra tip from Acres: If you’re planning to sell, a well-placed rug can make a room look bigger, warmer and more inviting in photographs and during viewings.

Add Warmth and Character With Lighting

As daylight fades, lighting becomes more than just functional – it shapes how a room feels. Instead of relying on a single ceiling light, create a “layered” lighting scheme with floor lamps, table lamps and wall lights. This lets you adjust the ambience to suit your mood, whether it’s bright and energising for working or soft and golden for relaxing evenings.

Warm-toned LED bulbs are energy-efficient yet give a cosy glow. Dimmers are another simple but effective upgrade, enabling you to control brightness and atmosphere at the touch of a switch.

Extra tip from Acres: Highlighting artwork, architectural features or even a fireplace with subtle spot lighting can add depth and sophistication – perfect for making your home memorable to visitors or viewers.

Comforting Colours, Textures and Scents

Colour and texture can completely change the feel of a room. Autumn is the perfect time to introduce richer shades – think deep rust, warm ochre, forest green or burgundy – through cushions, throws and accessories. If you prefer neutrals, layer textures instead: chunky knits, soft velvets and tactile weaves all add warmth and interest.

Throws are wonderfully versatile, doubling as a cosy cover on cold evenings and an attractive accessory during the day. You can also refresh your home affordably by swapping cushion covers, updating lampshades or adding a seasonal centrepiece to your dining table.

And don’t underestimate scent: diffusers, scented candles or simmering citrus-and-spice on the hob can create a welcoming autumnal aroma.

Cosy Curtains and Clever Draught-Proofing

Curtains are more than decoration – they’re a frontline defence against heat loss. Thermal-lined curtains or blinds can cut heat escaping through windows by up to 25%. Door curtains are another traditional yet effective way to stop draughts in their tracks, especially in porches, hallways or conservatories.

You can also upgrade simple touches like draught excluders, door seals and even keyhole covers to retain more warmth. Combined, these small changes can make a noticeable difference to your comfort and your heating bill.

Extra tip from Acres: Buyers are increasingly asking about energy efficiency. Simple upgrades like thermal curtains and draught-proofing can be attractive selling points and a conversation starter during viewings.

Smart Heating and Energy-Saving Tips

It’s not just décor that makes a home feel snug. A modern, programmable thermostat or smart heating system can save money and keep rooms at exactly the right temperature. Heating only the rooms you use regularly and lowering the temperature slightly in unused areas can add up to significant savings.

Bleeding radiators, adding reflective panels behind them and checking insulation in your loft are all quick wins to improve efficiency.

Create a Sleepy Sanctuary

Cooler weather is the perfect excuse to refresh your bedroom. Switching to a higher-tog duvet and flannelette sheets helps maintain the ideal temperature for sleep. Layering with blankets and throws gives you flexibility on nights when the temperature fluctuates.

Consider upgrading pillows or adding a mattress topper for extra comfort. Blackout or thermal curtains can also keep bedrooms warmer and darker for a deeper sleep.

Create Inviting Social Spaces

As we move indoors for autumn, our living and dining areas often become the heart of the home. Rearranging furniture to create a more intimate seating layout, adding a statement centrepiece or hanging a new piece of artwork can breathe fresh life into familiar spaces. If you have a fireplace, dressing the mantel with seasonal decorations or lighting the first fire of the year can create an instant focal point.

Don’t Forget the Outside

Your home’s exterior sets the tone before anyone even steps inside. A swept driveway, a few potted evergreens by the front door and warm outdoor lighting make for a welcoming approach – something prospective buyers always notice. Clear gutters, check roof tiles and seal any gaps now to prevent leaks or draughts later in winter.

Bringing It All Together

With a few thoughtful touches, you can make your home feel warmer, more stylish and more energy-smart this autumn. From rugs and lighting to curtains, bedding and energy efficiency, these changes don’t just enhance your comfort – they can also add real appeal if you’re thinking of selling.

At Acres Estate Agents we’re always happy to chat about ways to make your home stand out in today’s market. Whether you’re looking to sell, buy or simply get some inspiration, feel free to get in touch with our friendly team in Sutton Coldfield.

Want more tips and advice? We love being able to help! Acres Estate Agents are your local, family owned and run property experts for the Sutton Coldfield and Great Barr areas. Call your local office on the numbers below or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to find out how we can help you.

Want to check how much your home is worth? You can get an Instant Valuation here.  

If you would like to discuss selling your home, please get in touch with us This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call any of our busy, helpful teams/offices:

Four Oaks                              0121 323 3088

Sutton Coldfield                    0121 321 2101

Walmley                                 0121 313 2888

Great Barr                              0121 358 6222

Lettings                                  0121 312 4997

Mortgages                             0121 387 1616

Thank you for reading this article, and your interest in Acres and our property for sale. 

Nigel & Jayne  Deekes – Acres Partners

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Published: 14 September 2025

Hits: 575

Here at Acres Estate Agents, we’ve seen first-hand that the Autumn home-selling season of 2025 has kicked off at a remarkable pace. Once the summer holidays wrap up, September and October traditionally mark one of the busiest periods of the year – and this year is no exception. Many homeowners and buyers across Sutton Coldfield, Four Oaks, Walmley, Great Barr and the wider North Birmingham area are actively thinking about their next move, whether that’s upsizing for family space, downsizing after retirement, or simply making a lifestyle change.

We all know 2023 was more subdued: mortgage rates peaked, inflation stayed stubbornly high and many would-be movers pressed pause. Yet 2024 and indeed 2025 have proved to be quite different. Mortgage rates have been steadily easing since mid 2024, inflation is hovering close to the Bank of England’s 2% target, and crucially, August 2025 saw a further interest Base Rate, bringing renewed confidence to the market. Buyers who had been sitting on the fence have been prompted back into action, and many sellers are seeing higher viewing numbers.

Add to this the largest choice of homes for sale nationally since 2014, and it’s no surprise we’ve seen a marked increase in activity locally. Across our Sutton Coldfield and Greatt Barr branches alone we’ve recorded a significant rise in both buyer enquiries and agreed sales, mirroring the national picture of a 15% uplift in enquiries and a 27% jump in sales agreed compared with the same period last year. Our own data shows family houses between £300,000 and £650,000 are especially strong performers, while premium properties above £1 million in Four Oaks Estate and Little Aston are also enjoying more interest.

Local Expertise Meets National Trends

The combination of the Bank of England’s rate cuts and improving buyer sentiment has created a genuine “window of opportunity” for homeowners and buyers alike. Some of this is clearly pent-up demand from those who delayed during the tougher years of 2023–24. At Acres we are already seeing more offers at or very close to askingb prices. 

That said, the market is still price-sensitive. Well-presented and sensibly priced homes are attracting strong interest, while overpriced properties risk sitting unsold for longer. Accordingly, we’re advising clients to price competitively from day one to capitalise on the current momentum. We also emphasise high-quality marketing — professional photography, clear floorplans, targeted social media — which helps our listings stand out from the increased competition.

The upcoming Autumn Statement on 30 October 2025 will also be one to watch. Changes in taxation, reliefs or incentives could have a real impact on certain sectors of the market as we approach the end of the year, especially for investors and downsizers. Our in-house team is ready to interpret any changes immediately so our clients can make informed decisions.

House Prices – Autumn 2025 Snapshot

Typically at this time of year we see a small seasonal uptick in asking prices. This autumn, prices have risen 0.8% month-on-month nationally, double the seasonal average. The average UK asking price now stands at £370,759, with first-time buyer properties averaging £227,570, second-stepper homes £343,052, and top-of-the-ladder properties £670,753.

Locally, Sutton Coldfield and surrounding areas remain robust, with premium family homes in Four Oaks, Little Aston and Wylde Green particularly sought-after. We’re seeing competitive bidding on well-located properties and strong interest across all price points. Family homes near good schools, homes with annexes or home offices, and properties within walking distance of Cross City Line stations are achieving especially strong interest.

Advice for Sellers in Autumn 2025

While buyer interest is up, it’s still taking an average of 60 days to secure a buyer – a touch longer than last year. This reflects a market where buyers have more choice and are taking their time to secure the right property.

Our advice at Acres Estate Agents is clear:

• Price realistically from the outset. With affordability still stretched for many households, competitive pricing is key to generating early offers.

• Presentation matters. Homes that are clean, decluttered and professionally photographed attract the most viewings and best offers. We also advise a pre-sale “health check” — making sure small maintenance jobs and paperwork (like guarantees, service records) are ready to show buyers.

• Act promptly. Those listing early this autumn are getting the pick of the market, particularly as mortgage rates remain at their most competitive levels in several years.

• Leverage local knowledge. As Sutton Coldfield’s longest-established, largest family owned independent estate agent, we know exactly what buyers are looking for street-by-street, which helps us position your home correctly.

What This Means for Buyers

For buyers, the 2025 market offers more choice than at any time in the last decade. However, increased stock also means the best homes still go quickly. Buyers who are mortgage-ready, have paperwork in order and are registered with the right agent will be the first to hear about new instructions.

We’re seeing a particular surge of interest from first-time buyers taking advantage of improved mortgage deals, as well as families moving into the area for schools such as Arthur Terry. In premium brackets, lifestyle features such as proximity to Sutton Park, home gyms, garden offices and energy-efficient upgrades are becoming deciding factors.

Final Word from Nigel Deekes

“Autumn 2025 is shaping up to be one of the busiest autumn markets we’ve seen in years. With mortgage rates easing, inflation under control and renewed confidence in the economy, buyers are motivated – but they’re also discerning. Pricing correctly and marketing your home professionally is crucial. At Acres, our experienced teams across Sutton Coldfield, Four Oaks, Walmley and Great Barr is on hand to guide you through every step, from valuation to completion.”

Thinking of Selling? Book Your Free Valuation Today

If you’re considering a move this autumn or winter, now is an excellent time to act. Acres Estate Agents has been selling homes across Sutton Coldfield and North Birmingham for over 33 years and we know how to achieve the very best result for our clients.

📞 Call your nearest Acres office today or visit www.acres.co.uk to arrange a free, no-obligation valuation. Our friendly, experienced team will give you an accurate market appraisal and expert advice to help you make the most of the current market conditions.

Looking to Buy? Get Ahead of the Crowd

Our buyer register is busier than ever, and registered applicants are notified of new listings before they reach the property portals. If you’re thinking of buying in the area register with us now to receive priority alerts and early viewing opportunities.

📧 Email or call your local Acres branch today to join our buyer list  — detasil below and we will help you secure your ideal home as soon as it becomes available.

Want more tips and advice? We love being able to help!  Acres Estate Agents are your local, family owned and run property experts for the Sutton Coldfield and Great Barr areas. 

Want to check how much your home is worth? You can get an Instant Valuation here.  

If you would like to discuss selling your home, please get in touch with us This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call any of our busy, helpful teams/offices:

Four Oaks                              0121 323 3088

Sutton Coldfield                    0121 321 2101

Walmley                                 0121 313 2888

Great Barr                              0121 358 6222

Lettings                                  0121 312 4997

Mortgages                             0121 387 1616

Thank you for reading this article, and your interest in Acres and our property for sale. 

Nigel & Jayne  Deekes – Acres Partners

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Published: 19 August 2025

Hits: 19536

Modern Method of Auction explained

As the ‘modern method of auction’, also known as conditional auctions, becomes a more common way of selling property, we look at what sellers and buyers need to beware of.

What is the Modern Method of Auction  ( MMoA )  ?

The Modern Method of Auction is a type of property auction you can use to sell or buy a house. Buying and selling with online property auctions offers some advantages on both sides.

Sellers benefit from online property auctions because a substantial reservation fee must be paid upfront by the purchaser so there’s far less chance of them pulling out than with the traditional no sale no fee route.

Added peace of mind

For buyers it gives added peace of mind as once you’ve agreed a sale and paid the Reservation Fee, the property is exclusively reserved for you. Unlike Private Treaty where you're often left worrying the seller might change their mind or accept another offer.

It gives buyers the chance to purchase a property quickly and with no chain. But there are some potential pitfalls for buyers and sellers to consider. Read on for more.