-
Home
-
News
- Latest News
Latest News
- Details
- Hits: 3389
When considering the factors that influence house prices, schools often emerge as a key player in the equation. The proximity and quality of schools have a significant impact on the desirability of a neighbourhood, which, in turn, affects property values. This blog will delve into the intricate relationship between schools and house prices, exploring how educational institutions can cause a ripple effect that shapes the local property market.
The Educational Ecosystem and Property Values
For families, the quality of education a school provides is a top priority. As parents seek to secure the best possible educational opportunities for their children, they are willing to invest in homes located in areas with reputable schools. Thus, a symbiotic relationship between schools and property values is established. Here’s how it works:
- Demand and Attraction: High-performing schools create a surge in demand for homes within their catchment areas. Families often move or relocate to these areas to ensure their children receive a quality education. This increased demand leads to competition among buyers, ultimately driving up property prices. In 2019 PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PWC) reported that on average house prices near a top primary school costs £27,000 more than in a wider area, and £25,000 more near the top 10 % of secondary schools. Living close to one of England’s top primary and secondary state schools can add over £25,000 to the price of a house (pwc.co.uk )
- Resale Value: Homes situated near well-regarded schools tend to hold their value better over time. Even during economic downturns, these properties remain sought after, shielding homeowners from steep value declines. You can monitor house prices by seeing what homes have sold for in your area. Sold House Prices | See UK House Prices Online | Rightmove
- Homebuyer Psychology: The mere presence of a renowned school can enhance the perceived desirability of an area. The prestige associated with such institutions contributes to a positive image of the community, further boosting property values. The Department of Education published a report in 2017 which analysed 3 years of house price data and concluded “The value of houses near the poorest- performing schools are also lower than in the surrounding areas. House prices near the 10% best-performing primary schools are 8.0% higher than in the surrounding area.” The report can be found here School performance and house prices: analysis – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
The Catchment Area Effect
One of the most prominent ways schools influence house prices is through catchment areas. A catchment area refers to the geographical boundary within which a particular school has priority for student enrolment. As the quality of a school improves, homes within its catchment area become particularly attractive to families.
- Catchment Area Premium: Properties within a high-performing school’s catchment area often command a premium compared to those outside the boundary. This premium can be substantial and may vary depending on the school’s reputation and the scarcity of available homes.
- Competition and Bidding Wars: Limited supply coupled with high demand within a catchment area can lead to bidding wars among prospective buyers. In such scenarios, home prices can skyrocket well above the original listing price.
Investment in Infrastructure
Council investments in school infrastructure can also impact local housing markets. When educational institutions receive funding for improvements, expansions, or modernisation, it not only enhances the learning environment but also contributes to the overall appeal of the surrounding community area.
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Modern school buildings, state-of-the-art facilities, and advanced technology attract families seeking a contemporary and conducive learning environment for their children. These upgrades can indirectly contribute to a rise in property values.
- Local Area Transformation: School improvements often spill over into the community, leading to a positive transformation of the local area. This can include better roads, increased safety measures, and improved public spaces—all of which contribute to heightened desirability and subsequent property value appreciation.
The relationship between schools and house prices is intricate and multifaceted. The quality of education provided by a school and its catchment area can significantly influence the demand for homes and impact property values. As families prioritise access to reputable educational institutions, the housing market responds with increased demand and higher prices. Additionally, investments in school infrastructure can catalyse neighbourhood improvements that further boost property values.
For homeowners and prospective buyers alike, understanding the dynamics between schools and house prices is essential for making informed decisions. As communities continue to evolve, the ripple effect created by schools will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping local housing markets.
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
- Details
- Hits: 832
House prices show growth year on year
Key takeaways: April 2025 House Prices
- House prices in the West Midlands rise : 2.3% year on year ( Zoopla April 25 ) & by 1% ( Rightmove April 25 ) the average asking price of home hits a new record, at just over £261,316
- Our snapshot of the housing market after stamp duty increase suggests people are carrying on with their home moves
- New home-buyer demand is up 5% compared to last year, with new sellers coming to market up by 4% ( Rightmove April 25 )
- Mortgage rates may drop more quickly than anticipated if the Bank of England reduces the Base Rate in May
As the days get longer, Spring is in full bloom and the weather improves so does the property market, with more home-movers springing into action. This year, we’ve seen some more substancial changes in the market than usual, with for example the temporary stamp duty holiday ending from the start of April.
But the latest snapshots of the housing market shows that most people are moving on as normal, indeed this first quarter, here at Acres we have been pleasantly surprised, and very pleased by the levels of Sales and New Instruction coming to market with sales to the end of March, our year end, being 41% higher than the previous year, listings 18% higher, and properties completed once more 41% higher, a great year.
You can check the average prices in the region by viewing Rightmove’s House Price Index report for April and also the latest sold prices in your area here.
What is the reason for price increases ?
Traditionally we see increases in the Spring, when the housing market is at its busiest. However, this month’s jump is bigger than the usual price rise we see in April.
This is because demand from those looking to buy a home is up by 5% compared to this time last year, while the number of new sellers coming to market has also increased by 4%. ( data from Rightmove )
Nigel Deekes – founding Partner of Acres comments : “ It has been an exceptionally busy 12 months, the market has moved forward, as have Acres, once more proportionally taking more New instruction and Sales from the stock of property in the area. We’ve seen our prices move forward marginally, and the anticipated slow down from the withdrawal of the stamp duty savings impacting the market less than expected, as the general additional £2,500 payable perhaps not being as big a deterrent as expected, given the average price of a property in the area the stamp duty increase proportionally has less impact and desire for many to move remains strong, life goes on. “
Chris Deekes - Associate Partner, and managers of Acres Great Barr " Since the recent stamp duty changes, we haven’t seen an increase in the number of home sales falling through, which indicates there hasn’t been a backtracking from buyers who were unable to complete before the tax rise. There was also a significant rush to complete sales before the April deadline."
With more homes available for sale than at this time last year, there’s more competition, so it’s really important if you’re thinking of selling your home to work with your agent to get the price right.
Chris Harvey Managers of Acres Four Oaks explains: “March was a very busy month, with significantly more completions than usual. We, and solicitors worked very hard to get so many sales through. April has started off as a busy month, with instructions up, as are viewings and offers across all of four North Birmingham offices.”
What’s happening with mortgage rates?
Rightmove analysis shows Average mortgage rates remain just below 5%, with the current average five-year fixed mortgage rate of 4.72% being only slightly lower than this time last year. If the Bank of England opts for further and faster rate cuts, starting in May, then mortgage rates could drop more quickly than anticipated. You can check the current average mortgage rates here.
Know your mortgage bughet in 2 minutes :
- Discover your maximum borrowing power https://acres-fs.co.uk/aea-mortgage-borrow-calculator
- Establish your monthly repayments https://acres-fs.co.uk/aea-mortgage-repayment-calculator
- See homes you know you can afford www.acres.co.uk
House price inflation slows as supply grows
House price inflation is still relatively slow after a good recovery over the last 12 months. The annual rate of UK house price inflation edged lower in February to 1.8%.
Prices are still rising faster than a year ago (-0.2%) but we expect the rate of UK house price inflation to moderate in the coming months. ( Data from Zoopla )
There are several factors behind the expected slowdown. The number of homes for sale is growing faster than the number of sales being agreed, boosting choice for buyers and re-enforcing a buyers’ market.
While house price inflation is slowing, the number of sales agreed continues to increase, up 5% on a year ago, with demand 10% higher.
Lettings News
Annabelle Reynolds, Acres lettings manager comments : “ In March 2025, the UK's residential rental market is experiencing significant growth, with rental prices expected to increase considerably. This growth is projected to continue through 2029, with a cumulative increase of nearly 18%. Specifically, the UK rental market is poised for a surge, with a robust eight percent rise anticipated in 2024. Additionally, the {"How to Rent" guide https://www.mydeposits.co.uk/content-hub/how-to-rent-guide/} is a crucial resource for landlords, outlining the legal requirements for renting out properties. Landlords must ensure their properties are in compliance with the latest version of the guide, which includes providing adequate insurance, checking smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and ensuring valid gas safety certificates, EICRs, and EPC"
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
- Details
- Hits: 2765
The Benefits of Using a Mortgage Broker/Advisor.
Are you considering buying a home or remortgaging and need to secure a mortgage?
One crucial decision you'll face is whether to use a mortgage broker. While some may opt for going directly to a bank or lender, there are significant advantages to working with a mortgage broker.
Here are some key benefits:
* Access to a Wide Range of Lenders*
Mortgage brokers have access to a wide range of lenders. This means they can help you compare offerings from various lenders, including banks and specialist lenders.
*Tailored Solutions*
Every individual's financial situation is unique. A broker can tailor mortgage solutions to your specific needs and circumstances. Whether you're a first-time buyer, self-employed, or have a complex financial situation, a broker can find a mortgage product that suits you.
*Saves Time and Effort*
Searching for the right mortgage can be time-consuming and overwhelming, especially if you're unfamiliar with the mortgage market. A broker can streamline the process by doing the legwork for you, saving you time and effort.
*Expert Advice and Guidance*
Mortgage brokers are experts in their field. They can offer valuable advice and guidance throughout the mortgage application process, helping you understand the terms and conditions of different mortgage products and guiding you through the paperwork.
*Potential Cost Savings*
By accessing a wide range of mortgage products, brokers can often find deals with lower interest rates and better terms than those available through individual lenders. This can result in significant cost savings over the life of your mortgage.
In conclusion, using a mortgage broker can provide you with a range of benefits, including access to a wide variety of lenders and products, tailored solutions, time and effort savings, expert advice, and potential cost savings. So, when you're ready to buy a home, consider enlisting the help of a mortgage broker to guide you through the process and help you secure the best possible mortgage deal.
Contact our dedicated, helpful, knowledgeable team for further help and information
Lisa Brown : 0121 358 6222
Catherine Painter : 0121 321 2101
See our extensive range of mortgage and loan calculators here : https://acres-fs.co.uk/
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage
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
- Details
- Hits: 2357
As a homebuyer, you want to make sure that the property you purchase checks all the right boxes for you.
From location to work undertaken, or perhaps to be carried out there are plenty of factors to consider. However, when it comes to the features that potential buyers are looking for in a property, some things stand out more than others. Here are the top 10 things that homebuyers are looking for in a property in 2023, based on recent trends and studies.
1. Garages with extra storage space
Storage space is always at a premium, so it's no surprise that potential buyers are looking for garages that offer extra storage space. This is especially true for families with children, who need a place to store sports equipment, bicycles, and other outdoor gear.
2. Open floor plan
Gone are the days of smaller living rooms and closed-off spaces. Today's homebuyers are looking for open floor plans that allow for better flow, family living and flow between rooms. An open floor plan makes it easier to entertain guests, keep an eye on children, and enjoy the natural light that flows throughout the space.
3. Home offices
With more people working remotely, having a dedicated home office is more important than ever. Buyers are looking for properties that offer a separate space for a home office, whether it's a spare room, a converted attic or basement, or a small nook in a larger room. A dedicated home office can make it easier to focus on work and be more productive.
4. Walk-in pantry
A walk-in pantry is a dream come true for home cooks and foodies alike. It's a place to store dry goods, canned goods, and other essentials, keeping them organised and easily accessible. A walk-in pantry can also help save space in the kitchen, allowing for more counter and cabinet space for other kitchen essentials.
5. Modern kitchens
We firmly believe that the kitchen is the heart of the home, and homebuyers are looking for modern kitchens with all the latest amenities. This includes high-end appliances, plenty of counter space, and storage for pots, pans, and other kitchen tools. A modern kitchen can make meal prep and cooking easier and more enjoyable!
6. Outdoor patios
Outdoor living spaces are more important than ever, and now we’re entering into warmer weather, homebuyers are looking for properties that offer a private outdoor patio. This is a place to relax, entertain guests, and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. It can also add value to a property, making it more attractive to potential buyers in the future.
7. Energy efficiency
Homebuyers are increasingly concerned with energy efficiency and sustainability. They're looking for properties that offer energy-efficient appliances, windows, and insulation, as well as other sustainable features like solar panels. These features can not only help reduce energy bills but also help reduce a property's carbon footprint.
8. Island Kitchens
Island kitchens are a popular trend, especially in modern homes. They provide extra counter space for meal prep and cooking, as well as a place to sit and enjoy a quick meal or a cheeky midnight snack. An island kitchen can also serve as a focal point for the room, adding style and sophistication to the space. Island kitchens also offer additional storage space, with cabinets and drawers built into the island. This is especially useful in open-concept homes where storage can be limited.
In addition to their functional benefits, island kitchens also have aesthetic appeal. They can be designed in a variety of styles, from modern to traditional, to complement the overall design of the home. Some homeowners choose to add a statement light fixture above the island to add an extra touch of style
9. Walk-in wardrobes
Having a spacious and well-organised wardrobe is essential, and homebuyers are looking for properties that offer walk-in wardrobes. A walk-in wardrobe provides plenty of space for clothing, shoes, and accessories, as well as a place to get dressed and ready for the day ahead.
10. Hardwood flooring
Finally, homebuyers are looking for properties with hardwood flooring. They are durable, easy to clean, and add warmth and character to a home and are also versatile, and able to match a variety of different interior design styles.
From storage space to energy efficiency to modern kitchens, these features can make a property more attractive and valuable to potential buyers. If you're thinking about buying or selling a property, keep these features in mind to help make the most informed decision possible!
Here at Acres, we understand the importance of finding the right property that meets your needs and wants. Our experienced team will help guide you through the buying or selling process and answer any questions you may have.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you find your dream home. https://www.acres.co.uk/contact-us
Are you thinking of selling your property and 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
Thank you for reading this article, and your interest in Acres and our property for sale.
Nigel & Jayne Deekes – Acres Partners
Acres; proud to be family owned, managed, run and to have been serving the North Birmingham community for 33 years.
- Details
- Hits: 1156
Staging your home can attract buyers, speed up your sale and even get you a higher price. Here are 16 DIY home staging tips to help your home look its best.
Key takeaways
- Staging your home is a way of styling it to appeal to more buyers and encourage a higher sale price
- Home staging can add 10% to your sale price and sell your home 3 times faster
- Get a professional in or do it yourself with our 16 DIY home staging tips
Home staging is styling your home to appeal to more buyers.
It involves stripping back your personal style to help buyers picture themselves living there.
A staged home usually appeals to a wider audience than your own style – no matter your taste.
Although you can pay for a professional to stage your home, you can totally do it yourself.
DIY home staging is easy, fast and affordable, and you’ll reap the rewards when it comes to sale time.
Thinking of selling?
Get the ball rolling with an in-person valuation of your home. It’s free and there’s no obligation to sell.
Kerb appeal is a major factor when selling your home. It’s all about that first impression when buyers rock up to view it.
Get rid of weeds, power-clean the paving, sweep the drive and hide the wheelie bins.
You could consider painting your front door and adding a smart new house number to make the entrance really memorable.
Find out more about how to improve your kerb appeal.
2. Make sure every room has a clear purpose
We all make rooms multi-task for us, whether it’s a home office in the spare bedroom or a makeshift laundry space in the conservatory.
But home stagers recommend reverting rooms back to their main purpose. If your home’s listed with 3 bedrooms, make sure buyers will find 3 bedrooms at their viewing.
If you have an open plan design, split the room into zones and make it clear how you use each space.
Home staging tends to be about boosting visual appeal, but playing on other senses can have a big impact.
Think scented candles or plugs and soft music playing in the background to create a peaceful feel.
Make sure your home’s at a comfortable temperature too. That might mean putting the heating on for viewings in winter, or throwing open windows and switching on a fan in the summer.
4. Clear clutter and nick-nacks
Everyone has a bit of clutter lying around. A home’s there to be lived in, right?
But potential buyers want a blank canvas so they can imagine their nick-nacks in it.
Clearing clutter and personal items is home staging 101.
It leaves more floor and shelf space, contributing to a clean and minimalist feel.
A good rule of thumb is to remove half of the items in the room. The feeling of spaciousness will be worth any storage costs.
5. Use throws and cushions to revive old furniture
Professional home staging often involves wheeling in new sofas, beds and tables.
But you don’t have to go to the extreme of buying new furniture.
A knitted blanket and cosy cushions can give an old sofa an instant update. A patterned runner is a clever way to cover marks on the kitchen table.
6. Add mirrors to reflect light
Mirrors are an excellent way to make rooms feel bigger, lighter and more open.
When staging your home, place mirrors opposite windows for the best effect.
If you don’t have many mirrors, see if you can pick one or two up at a second hand shop.
7. Put fresh linen on beds and in bathrooms
It’s tricky to get the balance between hotel and homey when you’re staging a house for sale.
Don’t feel like everything has to be matching, but clean and coordinated linen can create a pulled together look.
Fresh bed sheets and fluffy bath towels are easy ways to give rooms a quick makeover.
Setting the dining table is one of the oldest tricks in the home staging book.
A dressed table will conjure images of cosy family teatimes and fun dinner parties.
A simple tray or basket in the centre of the table might be all you need.
Or, if you want to go all out, add pretty placemats, matching cutlery and polished glasses.
If you’re selling in the summer, you could even consider dressing an outdoor table. It’ll get your buyers thinking of al fresco brunches and afternoon barbecues.
9. Add life with plants and flowers
Home stagers always recommend adding life to your home with houseplants and fresh flowers.
A simple vase on the kitchen table or a potted plant in the lounge can create a feeling of freshness in an instant.
And they don’t have to be real. Fake plants and flowers can create the same atmosphere, and you won't need to worry about watering them.
10. Hide electric cables and extension leads
Electric leads can look a bit messy, and they get the buyer thinking about whether you have plugs in the right places.
If in doubt, unplug electrical appliances and tuck the leads out of sight.
11. Clear the kitchen worktops
Clear counters work wonders in making a kitchen feel bigger and more liveable.
If you can, store away any washing up brushes, utensils, fridge magnets and phone chargers.
Buyers will expect to see a toaster and kettle on the side, but see if you could pop the microwave in a cupboard. It’ll open up valuable worktop space.
Sparkling windows can finish off a room and make the whole house look fresher.
Give all your windows a good scrub, including the frames and sills. Pull the curtains back and let as much light in as possible.
13. Give tired walls a fresh lick of paint
Fresh paint can transform a room, even if you’re going for the same colour.
It’ll clear any marks and stains on the walls that you might have missed.
Soft and light colours reflect light well and are likely to appeal to a variety of people. A strong statement wall can add interest and depth to a room.
One thing that most staged homes have in common?
They don't have a TV.
A TV becomes a focal point. It can take over the room and draw the eye away from the things you want buyers to notice.
Buyers will expect to see a telly in your lounge. But if you have TVs in bedrooms think about packing them away while you hold viewings.
It’ll make the room feel more relaxed and balanced.
15. Give your home a deep clean
One of the most important parts of home staging is to clean, clean, clean.
Do a deep clean of the whole house – from the carpets to the back of the cupboards to the cobwebs in the corners.
And don’t forget to have a quick touch up before every viewing.
16. Add a couple of special finishing touches
You’ve decluttered, depersonalised, scrubbed, smartened, toned things down and spruced things up. What’s next?
Well, the trick to home staging is hitting the right note between subtle and memorable.
See if you can add a statement item, unique display or pop of colour that will make a room stand out.
You don’t have to spend a lot to make a difference either.
You could paint the kitchen handles with a metallic spray, create a coffee table display or add an interesting piece of art in the hallway.
How much value can home staging add?
You might question if home staging is worth the money and time, given you’re about to move out.
But home staging can add value and help you sell more quickly.
Experince here at ACres has showning a staged home can fetch 5%, or if a property is really cluttered or poor perhaps even more.
Find out what your home's worth..
You are not going to attract the same pool of potential buyers if your home doesn’t have appeal in the photos online etc and so staging at all stages of marketing can be key. Potential buyers could be put off just when looking through the photos of your home on line if the kerb appeal is poor.
If you would like to discuss selling your home, our proactive approach and ideas 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
Thank you for reading our latest article, your interest in Acres, and our property for sale.
Nigel & Jayne Deekes – Acres Partners
Article Zoopla 20.8.24
