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Published: 08 June 2026

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A huge thank you to everyone who supported the Sutton Fun Run this year, both within the Acres team and across our wonderful local community.

We are delighted to have been able to raise in excess of £1,135 for Severn Hospice, an incredible charity that provides respite, support and an exceptionally caring environment for those who are terminally ill and in the latter stages of their lives.

Over the past 25 years of supporting the Sutton Fun Run, Acres has helped raise in excess of £40,000 for a variety of fantastic causes, including Motor Neurone Disease, leukaemia charities and, this year, Severn Hospice. We are immensely proud to have played a small part in helping these worthy organisations continue their invaluable work within our communities.

As long-standing supporters of the Sutton Fun Run, many of you will no doubt have noticed our mile marker boards positioned around the course over the years. These have become something of a landmark for many runners, providing not only a useful guide to progress around the course but also a little fun and encouragement along the way, with additional markers such as Cardiac Hill and Halfway Round becoming well-known reference points and popular photo opportunities.

This year, the Acres team could also be found at Mile Marker 5, where we were delighted to provide a refreshments station offering a much-needed sugar boost to runners who had already conquered more than half of the course. Sweets, encouragement and, of course, the ever-popular Acres lollipops were all on hand to help participants keep going as they headed towards the finish line.

The Sutton Fun Run is always such a special day, bringing together runners, families, volunteers, supporters and local businesses, all with one common aim – to support others and make a difference. It is a wonderful example of community spirit at its very best and one of the many reasons why the Royal Town of Sutton Coldfield is such a fantastic place to live and work.

This year's event was blessed with excellent weather, creating perfect conditions for both runners and spectators alike. The crowds were exceptional, as always, with thousands of supporters lining sections of the eight-mile route, cheering participants on through the streets, around the roads and pathways of Sutton Park and all the way to the finish. The atmosphere throughout the day was simply outstanding.

There is always something particularly special about both the start and finish lines. The anticipation and excitement before the race begins is infectious, while the sight of hundreds of determined runners crossing the finish line after completing the challenging course is genuinely inspiring. Receiving that well-earned medal at the end of the run is a moment to savour, often followed by a visit to a local pub, café or restaurant to enjoy a well-deserved drink, share stories from the day and, naturally, compare finishing times with friends and family.

We are incredibly proud to have played our part once again this year and are very grateful to everyone who donated, ran, cheered, volunteered or helped in any way. Events such as the Sutton Fun Run simply would not be possible without the support, enthusiasm and generosity of so many people.

We look forward to many, many more years of supporting the Sutton Fun Run, giving a little something back to the community and the many worthwhile causes and charities it continues to help. What an outstanding event, and what a truly wonderful community we are lucky to be part of. 👏🏃‍♂️🏃‍♀️💙

If you are thinking of selling this summer, or would simply like to know what your home may be worth in the current market, our friendly local teams would be delighted to help.

Contact your nearest Acres office today for expert advice and a free market appraisal.

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 34 years.

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Published: 07 June 2026

Hits: 88

Create a Summer Garden Buyers Will Remember

There is something very special about spending time in the garden during the summer months. Whether it is a quiet coffee in the morning sunshine, a relaxed afternoon with family, or winding down in the evening as the day fades, a well-presented garden can become one of the most appealing parts of a home.

For those thinking of selling, the garden should never be overlooked. In many ways, it can be just as important as the kitchen, lounge or main bedroom. It helps create a lifestyle picture for potential buyers. It allows them to imagine summer barbecues, children playing on the lawn, drinks with friends, or simply enjoying a peaceful outdoor space after a busy day.

A garden does not need to be large, expensive or professionally landscaped to make an impact. With a few thoughtful touches, even a modest outdoor area can feel welcoming, attractive and memorable. During the summer months, this can make a real difference to how a property feels, how it photographs, and how buyers respond when they view.

Here are a few simple ways to help your garden come into its own this summer.

Make the first impression count

Before thinking about flowers, furniture or lighting, start with the basics. A neat, tidy and well-maintained garden immediately gives the impression that a home has been cared for.

Cut the lawn, trim the edges, remove weeds, sweep patios and paths, and clear away anything that looks tired or unnecessary. Old plant pots, broken furniture, children’s toys, unused storage boxes or general clutter can quickly distract from the space.

If you have a front garden, driveway or approach to the house, this is especially important. Buyers begin forming an opinion before they even step through the front door. A tidy frontage, a few colourful pots, a clean path and a welcoming entrance can all help set the right tone.

For rear gardens, try to create the feeling of a space that is easy to enjoy. Buyers should be able to step outside and immediately see how they would use it.

Add colour with simple seasonal planting

Summer is the perfect time to introduce colour, and planting does not need to be complicated. Pots, hanging baskets, window boxes and borders can all help soften a garden and make it feel more inviting.

Bright flowers near seating areas, doors and patios work particularly well, as these are often the areas buyers notice first. Geraniums, petunias, lavender, begonias and hydrangeas can all add instant charm and colour.

If you prefer a softer, more elegant look, consider whites, pale pinks, purples and greens. For a bolder summer feel, reds, oranges and yellows can create warmth and energy.

Scent is also worth thinking about. Plants such as honeysuckle, lavender, wisteria, star jasmine and roses can add something extra, particularly around patios, pathways, gates and seating areas. A garden that looks good is appealing, but a garden that also smells beautiful can be far more memorable.

Create a clear seating area

One of the easiest ways to help buyers connect with a garden is to show them how the space can be used. A table and chairs, bench, bistro set or comfortable outdoor sofa can immediately turn a plain patio or corner of the garden into an inviting living area.

The key is not to overcrowd the space. Choose furniture that suits the size of the garden. A small courtyard may only need a simple two-seater table, while a larger garden may benefit from a dining area or relaxed seating zone.

Cushions, throws and outdoor rugs can also help bring warmth and personality. They make the garden feel less like an outside area and more like an extension of the home.

If you are preparing a property for sale, think carefully about where furniture is placed. A seating area positioned to catch the sun, overlook the lawn or sit near attractive planting can help buyers imagine themselves enjoying the space.

Think about evening appeal

A garden should not only look good during the day. Summer evenings are a wonderful opportunity to create atmosphere, and the right lighting can make a big difference.

Fairy lights, lanterns, solar lights and wall lights can all help create a relaxed and welcoming feel. Solar-powered lights are particularly useful because they are inexpensive, easy to install and available in many different styles.

Try using lighting to highlight paths, steps, trees, borders or seating areas. The aim is to create a warm glow rather than a harsh floodlight effect.

For those who enjoy entertaining, a fire pit, chiminea or outdoor heater can create a natural focal point and make the garden feel usable later into the evening. Even if buyers are viewing during the day, these touches help suggest how the garden could be enjoyed after sunset.

Make the garden feel easy to maintain

Not every buyer wants a high-maintenance garden. In fact, many people are attracted to outdoor spaces that look good but feel manageable.

If your garden is large, try to show it as practical and well-organised. Keep lawns cut, borders tidy and pathways clear. If it is smaller, focus on making it feel charming, useful and easy to look after.

Raised beds, gravel areas, pots, evergreen shrubs and simple planting schemes can all help create an attractive but low-maintenance feel.

If you are selling, avoid making the garden look like hard work. Buyers should feel that the space will add enjoyment to their life, not extra pressure.

Pay attention to patios, fencing and boundaries

Patios, decking, fencing and walls all have a big impact on how a garden feels. A quick clean or small repair can make a noticeable difference.

Jet-washing a patio, repainting tired fencing, treating decking, replacing broken panels or clearing moss from paths can instantly lift the look of an outdoor space.

These jobs are often relatively simple, but they help create the impression that the property has been well maintained. This matters because buyers often notice small signs of neglect and may start wondering what else has been left undone.

A smart, clean and cared-for garden can give reassurance and confidence.

Dress the garden for photographs and viewings

When selling a property, presentation is key. The garden should be prepared for photographs in the same way as the interior.

Put cushions on the furniture, open the parasol, remove bins from view, coil away hoses, tidy children’s toys and make sure any washing is taken down. If you have a barbecue, make sure it is clean and positioned neatly.

Fresh plants in pots can be used to draw the eye to attractive areas. A tray with glasses, a jug of water or a simple table setting can help create a relaxed summer feel without looking overdone.

On viewing days, try to make sure the garden looks ready to enjoy. Buyers are not just looking at bricks and mortar; they are imagining a lifestyle.

Don’t forget kerb appeal

The front of the property matters enormously. A well-kept approach can make a home feel more attractive before a buyer even enters.

Clean the front door, polish door furniture, sweep the path, remove weeds, tidy bins and add a couple of smart pots or baskets if space allows. If the paintwork around the door or windows is looking tired, a small refresh can make a big difference.

First impressions are powerful. A property that looks cared for from the outside is more likely to create confidence before the viewing has even begun.

A better summer look can help create a better sale

A beautiful summer garden does not need to be perfect. It simply needs to feel cared for, welcoming and easy to enjoy. A few small changes can help buyers see the full potential of your home and imagine themselves living there.

Whether it is adding colour, creating a seating area, improving lighting, tidying borders or simply making sure everything is clean and well presented, these details can help your property stand out.

At Acres, we understand how important presentation can be when selling your home. The right advice, the right photography and the right marketing can all help show your property at its very best.

If you are thinking of selling this summer, or would simply like to know what your home may be worth in the current market, our friendly local teams would be delighted to help.

Contact your nearest Acres office today for expert advice and a free market appraisal.

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 34 years.

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Published: 21 April 2026

Hits: 350

The property market over the first few months the year has, overall, shown a commendable level of resilience, stability, and underlying strength, particularly when viewed against a backdrop of wider economic and global uncertainty.

From a demand perspective, one of the most encouraging trends has been the consistently strong level of new buyer registrations. We have seen a steady stream of motivated purchasers entering the market, many of whom are proceedable, well-informed, and keen to secure a property as we move. This level of engagement has provided a solid foundation for 2026 and has helped maintain momentum across all price ranges.

This demand has translated into good levels of offers, with many properties attracting strong interest shortly after coming to market. We have seen buyers acting decisively, particularly where homes are well-presented, or indeed needing refurbishment and sensibly priced. As a result, agreed sales levels have remained strong, reinforcing the fact that, when the right property meets the right price, transactions are progressing with confidence.

Where the market has been slightly more constrained is on the supply side, with the number of new instructions coming to market being a little slower than would normally be expected at this stage of the year. In our view, this has largely been influenced by what has felt like a prolonged winter period, both in terms of weather conditions and general sentiment. Many prospective sellers appeared to adopt a “wait and see” approach, holding back from launching their properties until clearer signs of spring and improved market conditions emerged.

Reassuringly, this hesitation now appears to be easing. Over the course of the last three weeks, we have experienced a noticeable and welcome increase in valuation requests, which is traditionally one of the most reliable leading indicators of future market activity. This uplift suggests that confidence is returning on the supply side, and we anticipate a stronger flow of new instructions coming to market as we move further into the late spring and early summer months. Seasonality always plays an important role in the property market, and it does feel that 2026 has simply seen a slightly delayed start, rather than any fundamental weakening. With lighter evenings, improved weather, and renewed confidence, we are now seeing the market begin to operate with the energy and momentum typically associated with this time of year.

From a broader economic and geopolitical standpoint, there had been understandable concerns that ongoing global tensions, including the situation surrounding the Iran conflict. Encouragingly, this has not had the material effect that some had anticipated. The market has remained relatively insulated, with domestic factors—such as employment stability, mortgage availability, and local demand—continuing to play a far more significant role in driving activity. In addition, mortgage rates, whilst still higher than the historic lows of previous years, have stabilised to a level that buyers are now becoming more accustomed to. This adjustment has helped support affordability and has allowed purchasers to proceed with greater certainty, further underpinning the consistency of demand we are witnessing.

North Birmingham Market Highlights

Focusing more locally, the North Birmingham market—including Sutton Coldfield, Four Oaks, Walmley and Great Barr—has performed particularly well during the opening months of the year.

Buyer demand across these areas has remained consistently strong, with a notable increase in applicants relocating within the region, as well as those moving out from central Birmingham in search of larger homes, better schooling catchments, and more lifestyle-driven locations. This has been especially evident in family housing, where well-positioned properties continue to generate strong interest and, in many cases, multiple viewings within the first few days of marketing.

In terms of pricing, values have remained firm and well-supported, with realistically priced homes continuing to achieve strong levels of interest and competitive offers. The upper end of the market has also shown encouraging signs of activity, particularly where properties are presented to a high standard and offer the space and specification that buyers now expect.

In summary, whilst the early part of 2026 has been characterised by a slightly restricted level of new stock, the overall health of the market remains very positive. Strong buyer demand, good levels of agreed sales, and a recent surge in valuation and instructions activity all point towards a more active and balanced market in the months ahead. With the seasonal uplift now clearly underway, and confidence building on both sides of the market, the outlook for the remainder of the year is both encouraging and optimistic, and we anticipate continued strong levels of activity as we progress through the key spring and early summer selling period.

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.

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Published: 29 March 2026

Hits: 3441

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.