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People sometimes expect estate agents to be able to fix things entirely outside of their control. That certainly doesn’t mean agents don’t try to help — in reality, good agents spend a huge amount of time working behind the scenes to keep transactions moving.
However, understanding where an estate agent’s influence ends is equally as important as understanding the value a great agent genuinely brings to the process. Here are five things people often mistakenly expect from estate agents during the buying and selling process.
5 Things You SHOULD Expect From Your Estate Agent
Whilst there are certain things estate agents simply cannot control, there are also standards and levels of service that every seller and buyer should absolutely expect from the company representing them.
At Acres, we strongly believe clients deserve proactive communication, honest advice and genuine commitment from start to finish. Here are five things you absolutely should expect from your estate agent.
1. Proactive Communication
One of the biggest frustrations for buyers and sellers is feeling left in the dark. You should expect your estate agent to communicate regularly, respond promptly and keep you updated throughout every stage of the transaction.
At Acres, we believe communication is one of the single most important parts of our role. Even where there is little movement, clients should still feel informed, reassured and supported. A good estate agent does not wait for problems to escalate before picking up the phone.
2. Honest And Professional Advice
A strong estate agent should always provide realistic, evidence-based advice rather than simply telling clients what they want to hear.
That includes:
• Honest pricing guidance
• Feedback following viewings
• Advice on market conditions
• Recommendations to improve marketing
• Strategic negotiation guidance
At Acres, our long-standing experience across Four Oaks, Sutton Coldfield, Walmley and Great Barr allows us to provide local advice built around genuine market knowledge and buyer behaviour.
3. High Quality Marketing
You should expect your property to be professionally presented and marketed to the highest possible standard. Professional photography, strong wording, premium online exposure, social media marketing and proactive buyer matching all play a huge role in generating interest and securing offers.
At Acres, we invest heavily in marketing because first impressions matter enormously in today’s market. We believe properties deserve more than simply being uploaded online and left to sit.
4. Strong Sales Progression
The real work often begins once a sale has been agreed. You should expect your estate agent to actively progress the transaction, liaise with solicitors and mortgage brokers, chase updates and help keep momentum moving all the way through to completion.
At Acres, sales progression forms a major part of our service because agreed sales only truly matter once clients have successfully moved.Behind every completed transaction is usually a huge amount of unseen work.
5. Genuine Care And Commitment
Moving home is one of the biggest financial and emotional decisions most people ever make. You should therefore expect your estate agent to genuinely care about achieving the best possible outcome for you.At Acres, as a long-established family-owned independent estate agency, we pride ourselves on offering a bespoke and personal service focused entirely around our clients’ best interests.
Things You SHOULDN'T Expect From Your Estate Agent
1. They Can’t Speed Up Solicitors Or Conveyancers
Estate agents spend a huge amount of time chasing solicitors, passing on messages and trying to keep transactions moving. However, they cannot physically speed up legal work, force searches to come back quicker or push cases to the front of a solicitor’s workload.
Delays can occur for many reasons including local authority backlogs, mortgage lender requirements, enquiries and compliance checks.A good estate agent will identify problems early, keep communication flowing and maintain pressure wherever possible, but ultimately solicitors operate to their own timescales.
2. They Can’t Guarantee Completion Dates
Until contracts are formally exchanged, no completion date is legally binding. Many buyers and sellers understandably assume dates can simply be agreed and fixed early in the process. However, chains, surveys, mortgage delays and legal issues can all cause dates to move unexpectedly.
Estate agents can help coordinate timings and keep parties aligned, but they cannot absolutely guarantee completion dates before exchange of contracts. This is particularly true where longer property chains are involved.
3. They Can’t Make An Unrealistic Price Work
Estate agents can advise, guide and recommend pricing strategies, but ultimately buyers determine market value. If a property is overpriced, it can sit on the market too long, lose momentum and sometimes sell for less than if it had been priced correctly from the outset.
A professional estate agent should always provide honest, evidence-based advice, even when that conversation is difficult. The reality is that no estate agent can force buyers to pay more than they believe a property is worth.
4. They Can’t Stop Buyers Or Sellers Changing Their Minds
Property transactions are emotional and circumstances can change quickly. Buyers may become nervous after surveys, sellers may reconsider moving, or financial situations may alter unexpectedly. Until exchange of contracts, either side can legally withdraw from the transaction.
Good estate agents work extremely hard behind the scenes to keep deals together, maintain communication and solve problems, but they cannot legally prevent someone from changing their mind.
5. They Do Far More Than Simply Listing Property Online
Many people assume estate agency simply involves uploading photographs online and arranging viewings. In reality, much of the work happens behind the scenes after a buyer has been found.
Negotiating offers, progressing sales, coordinating chains, handling difficult conversations, chasing solicitors, managing expectations and solving problems are all major parts of a modern estate agent’s role. The best estate agents are not simply salespeople — they are deal managers, communicators and problem solvers.
For us, estate agency is not simply about selling houses. It is about building trust, delivering results and guiding clients professionally through every stage of the moving process. Because ultimately, great estate agents do far more than just market property — they help people move forward with confidence.
The initial inspiration and some supporting details for the “5 things you shouldn’t expect from your estate agent” section were based on an article and industry commentary originally featured by Rightmove 20.6.26, adapted and expanded with additional local insight and commentary from Acres Estate Agents.
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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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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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.
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Property Market Update – The Past 12 Months
The past twelve months have certainly been an interesting and evolving period for the property market. While much discussion has centred around wider economic policy and the recent Autumn Budget, which in the end proved broadly property neutral in its overall impact on housing, the most significant factor influencing the market has been the gradual easing of interest rates and the renewed confidence this has brought to buyers and sellers alike.
During the latter part of last year we began to see a steady shift in sentiment across the housing market. As lenders slowly started to reduce mortgage rates and introduce more competitive products, affordability improved for many prospective buyers who had previously paused their moving plans. As a result, a growing number of purchasers began re-entering the market, bringing with them a welcome increase in activity and optimism.
Encouragingly, this positive momentum has continued into the New Year. The first quarter of the year has proven particularly strong, with January, February and March all showing very healthy levels of buyer engagement. Across our offices we have seen a significant uplift in new enquiries and registrations, with approximately 80% more buyers being registered compared with earlier periods.
Naturally, this increase in buyer interest has resulted in a much greater number of property viewings taking place. Most importantly of all, this activity has translated into a notable rise in sales being agreed, which is always the strongest indicator of genuine confidence returning to the marketplace.
It is also worth noting that many buyers currently searching are highly motivated. A significant proportion of those registering are actively looking to secure a property within the coming months, particularly as mortgage products become more competitive and borrowing conditions improve. This combination of increased buyer demand and improved lending conditions has helped create a far more balanced and active market than we experienced previously.
As we now approach the latter stages of the winter and move closer to the spring selling season, the timing for bringing a property to the market could not be more favourable. Traditionally, a large number of properties come onto the market during April and throughout the spring period, meaning that sellers who launch their homes slightly earlier often benefit from a stronger level of buyer attention before the wider choice of properties becomes available.
For this reason, March and April can be an excellent time to begin marketing a property, allowing sellers to take advantage of the current levels of demand while also positioning their home ahead of the traditional spring rush. In addition, with Easter falling relatively early this year, many families are already beginning to plan potential moves ahead of the summer months, further increasing buyer activity during this period.
At Acres we have been particularly encouraged by the level of engagement we are currently seeing across all price ranges. From first-time buyers through to those seeking larger family homes or executive properties, the appetite to move is clearly returning, which is extremely positive for the overall health of the market.
If you are considering a move and would like to discuss the current market conditions in more detail, we would of course be delighted to assist. Whether you are ready to begin marketing your property immediately or are simply exploring your options for later in the year, our experienced team would be very happy to provide honest advice and guidance.
Equally, if your plans have been placed on hold for the time being, please do remember that we are always here to help whenever the time feels right. The property market can change quickly, and having an up-to-date understanding of current values and buyer demand can often be extremely useful when planning ahead.
Should you wish to talk through your potential move, arrange a valuation, or simply obtain some friendly advice, please feel free to give us a call or drop us an email at any time. We would be absolutely delighted to hear from you and assist in any way we can.
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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Enhancing & Revolutionising Property Sales Through Social Media
In the contemporary era of digital marketing, social media isn’t just a tool—it’s a powerhouse. Acres Estate Agents, as the ares market-leading independent agency, has embraced this revolution to redefine how properties are marketed, discovered, and sold. By harnessing the power of platforms like Facebook and Instagram, Acres delivers a seamless, visually compelling experience that resonates with today’s buyers and sellers.
Maximising Facebook’s Reach
Facebook’s vast user base gives Acres an unparalleled opportunity to connect locally and regionally. Each property listing is presented with professionally curated photography and thoughtfully crafted descriptions. Beyond simply showcasing homes, the platform becomes a lively hub where potential buyers discover new listings in real time, boosting visibility and engagement.
Instagram: A Visual Masterpiece
When it comes to visual storytelling, Instagram is the ideal platform, and Acres excels at leveraging it. High-resolution imagery, immersive video tours, and interactive 360-degree walkthroughs let potential buyers “step inside” a property virtually. This engaging content not only captivates audiences but also generates serious interest, making properties stand out in a competitive marketplace.
Thought Leadership Through Market Insights
Acres goes beyond mere listings. Every month, we share market insights—covering trends, property values, and investment opportunities. These updates position Acres as a trusted advisor, empowering clients with the knowledge they need to navigate the property landscape with confidence.
Introducing Our Team and Community
A home is more than bricks—it’s about the people and the place. Through social media, we highlight our friendly, expert team and showcase the local area, from amenities to community spirit. Buyers don’t just see a house—they experience a lifestyle.
A Proactive, Personable Service
At the heart of Acres is a commitment to proactive, friendly service. Our social presence reflects this, with timely responses, expert advice, and a genuine dedication to supporting every client. Whether it's an initial enquiry or post-sale follow-up, we’re there every step of the way.
Leading with Innovation
Innovation isn’t an option—it’s our standard. We constantly explore new social media tools and creative ideas, ensuring that our marketing is fresh, dynamic, and effective. By staying at the forefront of digital marketing trends, we give our clients a competitive edge.
Explore Our Social Media Platforms
We encourage you to visit our Facebook and Instagram pages. There, you’ll see firsthand how we bring properties to life, offer valuable market insights, and showcase what makes Acres the trusted name in property.
Conclusion
As Nigel Deekes, partner at Acres Estate Agents, I can proudly say that our approach to social media is just one example of our commitment to excellence. As a family-owned business, we’ve been serving our local community for over 34 years—through changing markets, growing platforms, and evolving customer needs. Our roots in the area have kept us grounded, and our forward-thinking approach ensures we stay ahead.
We don’t just market properties; we sell them, as very real differnce, we build relationships—rooted in trust, local knowledge, and genuine care. We’ve helped generations of families buy and sell homes, and we understand that real estate isn’t just about transactions—it’s about people’s lives and futures. Our longevity speaks to our commitment, and our embrace of cutting-edge tools—like our social media strategy—is simply the next chapter in our story of innovation. When you choose Acres, you choose decades of expertise, paired with modern, innovative marketing. We are deeply rooted in this community, and we’ll continue to bring local expertise and cutting-edge service for decades to come.
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.
