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Published: 21 May 2025

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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 sales@acres.co.uk 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: 18 April 2025

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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 sales@acres.co.uk 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: 12 April 2025

Hits: 2163

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 sales@acres.co.uk 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: 05 April 2025

Hits: 1926

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 sales@acres.co.uk 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.