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.
In the blink of an eye it is Autumn, the trees are full of beautiful reds and golds and the first waft of coal fire smoke is in the air in later September.
As always we are taking calls from family buyers looking for larger homes, however there has been a real up swing, as expected. Clients like to buy in autumn, spring and early summer.
We find that buyers with children tend not to house hunt during the school holidays. After all, when the sun is shining, people are away, life is busy thus leaving little time for viewing homes.
It’s also worth remembering how stressful viewing a home can be, with children who just want to be playing / elsewhere. Instead, parents tend to wait until the children return to school, so they can view homes a little easier. But there is more to it than convenience alone; psychology of space can come into play too.
During the summer of course kids often spend much more time outdoors. Whilst their children are busy playing in the garden it’s easy for parents to feel their home is bigger than it is. As a result, ‘upsizers’ tend not to feel as squeezed for space in the warmer months.
But as the nights begin to draw in, the house begins to feel crowded, meaning parents once again are looking for a change and a larger home in which to grow.
House hunters searching in September and October tend to be keener to make an early decision. After all, everybody wants to settle in ready to start enjoying their new home in time for Christmas. In fact, ‘a quiet and settled Christmas’ can be a real driving factor. Buyers are more motivated than ever to get the deal done. Indeed Rightmove confirm an increase in traffic numbers to their website at this time of year.
With that in mind, let’s explore the reasons why selling in September is a great time.
Motivated buyers
Buyers who start looking for a home in September are generally planning to be moved in by Christmas, particularly if they’re looking to host family and friends in their new home.
As a result, they see December as a self-imposed deadline, which can encourage them to make an offer quickly and also do their best to speed up the buying process.
School admission deadline dates
Did you know, many school admission deadline dates fall towards the year end, with placements offered in the New Year. Schools are a key reason why many families move home. For these people, they need to be moved into the area in order to have the best possible chance of getting into their preferred school. These families tend to start house hunting as soon as the summer holidays end.
Focus on those cosy features
September is a time when gardens become less of a must-have. Buyers still love them, but homes which struggle with outside space sell much better in September as buyers mindset turns towards cosy features such as open fires and wood-burning stoves. If you have one, make sure yours is lit for any photos & viewings !
The kids are back at school
This is the most obvious reason of them all. Both home sellers and home buyers with families delay any moving plans because of the Summer holidays. Come September, the kids are back at school and they have much more free time. Houses become easier to keep tidy. Potential buyers appear more relaxed, many choosing to view when the kids are actually in school!
You’re more likely to get a higher offer, or the asking price
Research shows that September is a strong month for buyers, with property searches very high, compared to November and December for example.
This means more potential buyers for your property, which in turn means more competition among buyers. When you consider the fact that there are more motivated buyers too, it can create a perfect storm for sellers. Indeed, with interest rates falling and anticipation of a busy autumn market this is more likely.
Delaying marketing may lead to your property becoming “ stale “
It’s also worth noting that if you list your house during a quieter Winter months it might stay on sale for longer. This may lead to buyers questioning why, and perhaps going in with a lower offer than they’d otherwise be making.
Are There Other Good Months To Sell?
The Spring is still considered by many people to be the best time to sell. Houses that come on to the market then tend to sell quickly, there are several reasons why it’s considered to be a good time.
The weather’s getting milder, which encourages buyers to go and view houses
Gardens are coming into bloom
The evenings are starting to get lighter, so buyers can see a house in its best light
There’s usually plenty of buyers in the market for a new home
Kids are still in school, so busy parents have more time to view properties
However, it’s worth remembering that different times of the year can appeal to different buyers.
On the flip side, first-time buyers and young couples may wait until the new year to start looking, with the aim of being in their new home in time for the summer, when they can host friends and family into the evening, with no kids to think about!
If you are you thinking of selling your property and want to check how much your home is worth? You can get an Instant Valuation here.
For further information on lettings, help, or to book a rental valuation, please contact our Lettings Manager, Hamad, and the Acres Lettings team on 0121 312 4997 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
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 be
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.
Most people are aware that historically, the best time to sell your home is in the spring. Inspiration is in the air, the weather is getting warmer, gardens are beginning to look bright again and many buyers are eager to kick the year off with a new home.
But does this mean you should avoid selling once this spring window has passed?
Absolutely not.
There is Strong Demand
Most people do not begin viewing potential new homes until they have offers relating to their current property. Therefore, selling your home later in the summer is an excellent option if you are part of a longer chain.
Those who have marketed their home in the late spring may find that they cannot attract and accept offers until the middle of summer. Therefore, they will be searching for homes in August.
With a less saturated market at this time of year, it is far more likely they will find your property.
Decreased Competition
Yes, the market is slightly slower in August due to holidays and schools being closed, but that means that your home will potentially face less competition.
Determined buyers will have a smaller selection of homes to choose from, and therefore there is a much greater chance of increased interest and buyers driving up the sale cost.
Progress is Progress
Your home could take longer to sell in the summer months.
Those with children are preoccupied with arranging childcare, and therefore they are slower to book viewings and can often be unreliable. Also, many people choose to holiday during this period, so they are not contactable in the same capacity they usually would be.
However, this does not mean your home will not sell; it simply means it might take a few extra weeks.
Try to embrace the slightly less hectic and more laid back market in the late summer months.
Your Home Photographs Beautifully
The key to a successful house sale is exceptional marketing materials. These marketing materials have three key elements: a beautifully written informative description, a detailed floorplan, and incredible photographs.
Summer provides the best lighting to capture these fantastic images.
Great Weather Incentivises Viewers
The restrictions of the pandemic caused a steep rise in online video viewings in the housing market. These are incredibly beneficial to both buyer and seller, allowing for more flexibility and encouraging quicker sales.
However, most buyers will want to view a home in person before placing a formal offer on the property.
The warmer weather and brighter evenings encourage buyers to make an effort to view your home.
When the autumn begins to creep upon us and the days get substantially shorter, prospective buyers are much less incentivised to make the journey after work to view your property.
Settled for Christmas
The festive period is one of the most cherished in all of our calendars. It’s something we all look forward to, and throughout December, we all spend a tremendous amount of time at home entertaining guests.
Therefore, most prospective buyers who haven’t secured a deal in the summer are eager to complete before the onset of winter.
Marketing your home in August allows for plenty of time to be settled into a new house before the start of the Christmas period.
Top Tips for Selling Your Home in August
Control The Temperature
It’s not often in the UK that we are blessed with scorching hot summers. However, you want your buyers to be as comfortable as possible, taking their time to view your property.
Therefore, if you are lucky enough to show your home on a particularly beautiful day, open the windows wide to let in the fresh air.
Declutter and De-personalise
As with any other time of the year, it is crucial that you thoroughly declutter your home before allowing potential buyers to view it.
However, it is never as important as in the summertime, when viewers expect to see a bright, fresh blank canvas.
Play to Your Strengths
All buyers are going to be interested in your outside space. In the winter months, viewers often overlook the garden, focusing on the cosy environment inside.
So, when showing your home in August, you must get the garden looking immaculate.
Mow the lawn
Remove any dead plants or empty pots
Repaint the fences where necessary
Finally, a great tip is to set out the garden for entertaining, showing just how viewers could use the space. For example, consider staging a BBQ scene complete with a dressed table to show your viewers how great the outside entertaining area is.
Want more tips and advice? We love being able to help! Acres Estate Agents are your local, family owned and run property experts for the Sutton Coldfield and Great Barr areas. Call your local office on the numbers below or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to find out how we can help you.
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.
Sutton Coldfield, Four Oaks, Walmley and Great Barr Continue to Attract Buyers
The property market across Sutton Coldfield, Four Oaks, Walmley and Great Barr has demonstrated considerable resilience during the first half of 2026.
Although the year began more slowly than many had anticipated, activity has strengthened as the months have progressed. Across our Acres offices, we are now arranging excellent numbers of viewings, receiving encouraging offers and agreeing a strong number of sales.
The wider national picture remains mixed, with economic uncertainty and changing mortgage rates continuing to influence buyer confidence. However, committed purchasers are still moving, and correctly priced, professionally presented homes are attracting good interest throughout our local areas.
The National and Regional Picture
The latest official UK House Price Index recorded an average UK property value of approximately £270,000 in April 2026, representing annual growth of 3.8%. However, this headline figure was affected by comparisons with the market immediately following the Stamp Duty changes in April 2025 and may be revised as further completed-sales data becomes available.
Other more recent indices indicate a steadier market. Nationwide reported annual house-price growth of 2.2% in June 2026, while the Lloyds house-price index recorded annual growth of 0.6%.
This difference illustrates why no single monthly index should be viewed in isolation. The broad picture is of a market in which prices are generally stable or increasing modestly, rather than experiencing the rapid growth seen during the pandemic years.
In the West Midlands, the average asking price of a property coming to the market was approximately £303,805 in June 2026, according to Rightmove. This was 1.3% higher than a year earlier, with homes taking an average of approximately 59 days to secure a buyer.
Official completed-sales data placed the average West Midlands property price at approximately £251,000 in April 2026. Asking-price and completed-sales figures measure different parts of the market, but together they indicate that the region remains relatively stable and continues to compare favourably with some more expensive parts of the country.
Sales Activity: A Slower Start, Followed by Stronger Momentum
National buyer demand has been affected by higher mortgage costs and continuing political and economic uncertainty. Zoopla reported that sales agreed during June were approximately 7% lower than a year earlier, while buyer enquiries were around 15% lower.
However, local markets do not always move in precisely the same way as national averages.
Here at Acres, following a slower beginning to 2026, we are seeing strong viewing numbers and a healthy level of sales being agreed across Sutton Coldfield, Four Oaks, Walmley and Great Barr.
Many purchasers who delayed their plans earlier in the year have now returned to the market with clearer budgets and greater motivation. Buyers are still price-conscious, but they are prepared to act decisively when a suitable, realistically priced home becomes available.
Properties launched with accurate pricing, professional photography, clear floorplans and comprehensive marketing are generating the strongest response. Conversely, homes entering the market at an overly ambitious price can struggle, as buyers have access to more information and are quick to compare competing properties.
Local Market Trends
Sutton Coldfield
Sutton Coldfield continues to attract families, professional buyers and those relocating from other parts of Birmingham and the wider region.
Demand remains particularly strong for well-presented family homes close to reputable schools, railway stations, shopping facilities and Sutton Park. Homes offering good gardens, flexible living accommodation and convenient access to the Cross-City railway line continue to perform especially well.
The market remains price-sensitive, but correctly positioned properties are generating good viewing activity and achieving encouraging results.
Four Oaks
Four Oaks remains one of the most prestigious and desirable residential areas in the West Midlands.
The upper end of the market is naturally more selective, particularly where buyers require larger mortgages. Nevertheless, high-quality homes in established roads, close to Sutton Park, excellent schools and Four Oaks railway station continue to attract committed buyers.
Presentation, marketing quality and accurate initial pricing are particularly important at this level. Buyers have high expectations, but exceptional homes in the right locations continue to sell well.
Walmley
Walmley remains highly popular with families attracted by its schools, established residential neighbourhoods, local amenities and convenient access to Sutton Coldfield and Birmingham.
Three and four-bedroom family homes continue to generate healthy interest, especially where properties are well maintained, extended or offer attractive gardens.
Walmley provides an appealing balance between accessibility, community and value, helping to maintain demand throughout changing market conditions.
Great Barr
Great Barr continues to offer excellent comparative value and remains particularly active within the first-time buyer and family-home market.
Well-presented semi-detached homes, extended houses and properties close to schools, transport routes and local amenities continue to attract plenty of attention.
While purchasers remain conscious of mortgage affordability, competitively priced homes can still generate several viewings within a relatively short period and, in some cases, competing offers.
What Is Supporting Local Demand?
Several long-standing factors continue to underpin demand throughout our area:
Excellent transport connections: Access to Birmingham city centre, the Cross-City railway line, major road networks and the M5, M6 and M42 makes the area attractive to commuters.
Strong school networks: Access to highly regarded primary and secondary schools continues to generate year-round family demand.
Green space and lifestyle: Sutton Park, local parks and established residential surroundings remain major attractions for buyers seeking space without losing convenient access to Birmingham.
Relative value: Walmley and Great Barr, in particular, can offer buyers more space for their budget than some neighbouring premium locations.
Limited supply of certain homes: Good-quality family houses in particularly desirable roads and school catchments remain relatively limited, helping to support their values.
Mortgage Rates and Affordability
Mortgage affordability remains one of the most important factors shaping buyer decisions.
The Bank of England base rate currently stands at 3.75%, below its previous peak of 5.25% but still considerably higher than the exceptionally low rates experienced during much of the 2010s.
Mortgage rates rose during the spring following renewed inflationary and international economic concerns. Average market-wide fixed rates have recently remained above 5%, although more competitive products may be available to borrowers with larger deposits and stronger financial circumstances.
Buyers are increasingly adjusting to the current lending environment rather than waiting indefinitely for rates to return to previous historic lows.
Obtaining an agreement in principle before viewing is advisable, as it allows purchasers to understand their budget and demonstrates to sellers that they are in a position to proceed.
More Choice Means Pricing Is Vital
The amount of property available to buyers has increased compared with recent years.
Greater choice is beneficial for purchasers, but it means sellers must compete more effectively for attention. Buyers can quickly identify whether a property represents reasonable value, and homes that appear expensive compared with similar alternatives may receive fewer enquiries.
Realistic pricing does not mean underselling a property. It means creating the strongest possible initial response, encouraging viewings and placing the seller in a better position to generate attractive offers.
A strong launch is particularly important because properties generally receive their greatest online exposure during their first few weeks on the market.
The Rental Market
Rental demand remains strong across North Birmingham, particularly for well-maintained family homes and modern apartments close to railway stations, schools and employment centres.
The average private rent across the West Midlands reached approximately £966 per month in May 2026, an annual increase of around 4.2%. Across Birmingham, the average monthly rent was approximately £1,086 in April, representing annual growth of 3.3%.
The actual rent achieved varies considerably according to the type, size, condition and location of an individual property. Larger family homes in Sutton Coldfield and Four Oaks will generally command considerably more than the regional average.
For landlords, continuing tenant demand can help reduce vacant periods. However, mortgage costs, taxation, maintenance expenditure and changing regulation must all be considered before purchasing an investment property.
Forecast: What to Expect During the Second Half of 2026
The outlook for the remainder of 2026 is more uncertain than it appeared at the beginning of the year.
Major forecasters currently differ in their expectations. Knight Frank has forecast average UK house-price growth of approximately 1.5% during 2026, while Savills has revised its forecast to a 2% fall, principally because higher mortgage costs may constrain demand.
Nationwide’s forecast issued at the beginning of the year anticipated growth of between 2% and 4%, although subsequent international and economic developments have made that range less certain.
Rather than relying on one precise forecast, the most reasonable expectation is for a relatively steady and price-sensitive market, with considerable variation between different regions, neighbourhoods and property types.
The Midlands and more affordable northern markets may prove more resilient than London and parts of the South East because average prices and mortgage requirements are generally lower.
Demand across Sutton Coldfield, Four Oaks, Walmley and Great Barr should continue to be supported by:
Established employment and commuter connections
Strong local schools and family demand
Access to Birmingham and the motorway network
Attractive green spaces and established communities
Limited availability of the best-positioned family homes
Better relative affordability than many southern markets
Mortgage rates, inflation and consumer confidence will remain important. Should borrowing costs ease later in the year, buyer activity could strengthen further. However, even without a significant reduction, our experience is that motivated buyers are continuing to move when the right home becomes available.
Opportunities and Recommendations
Buyers
Buyers who are organised and financially prepared are placing themselves in the strongest position.
Obtaining a mortgage agreement in principle, having proof of deposit readily available and placing an existing property on the market before offering can all improve the prospect of securing a desirable home.
Walmley and Great Barr continue to offer excellent value, while Sutton Coldfield and Four Oaks provide access to some of the region’s most desirable schools, transport links and residential locations.
Buyers should avoid waiting solely for the possibility of substantially lower mortgage rates. A future reduction could increase affordability, but it may also bring more purchasers into the market and intensify competition for the best homes.
Sellers
For sellers, the current market offers genuine opportunity.
Although the year began slowly, we are now experiencing strong viewing activity and agreeing a healthy number of sales. The longer days, good weather and gardens looking at their best make this an excellent time to bring a property to the market.
Homes that are accurately priced and comprehensively marketed are attracting committed buyers. Professional photography, detailed floorplans, high-quality property descriptions and prominent online exposure remain essential.
Sellers considering moving later in the year may benefit from acting now to capitalise on the seasonal presentation of their home and the number of active buyers currently registering with our offices.
Investors
The continuing shortage of high-quality rental accommodation is supporting rents and tenant demand.
Family homes, modern apartments and properties close to railway stations, schools and major employment routes remain particularly attractive. However, investors should examine the complete financial position, including mortgage costs, taxation, maintenance, regulation and realistic rental income.
Investment decisions should be based on sustainable long-term returns rather than assuming rapid capital appreciation or immediate reductions in interest rates.
A Market Requiring Experience and Local Knowledge
The market in 2026 is active, but it is also more selective.
Buyers are well informed, mortgage affordability remains important and there is greater competition between sellers. This makes accurate valuation, professional presentation and proactive sales progression more important than ever.
National statistics can provide a useful overview, but every local market—and every individual road—can perform differently. A property’s condition, price, position, school catchment and competition will all influence the eventual result.
Final Word: Strength in Familiar Foundations
The property market across Sutton Coldfield, Four Oaks, Walmley and Great Barr remains built upon strong and familiar foundations.
Following a slower start to 2026, we are now seeing plenty of viewings, positive buyer engagement and a strong number of sales being agreed. While the market remains sensitive to mortgage rates and pricing, motivated buyers are actively searching and prepared to proceed.
With longer days, favourable weather and homes and gardens presenting at their best, this is an excellent time for sellers to capitalise on current buyer demand.
Whether you are buying, selling, renting or investing, these well-established North Birmingham communities continue to demonstrate why they remain among the West Midlands’ most reliable and desirable residential locations.
If you are you thinking of selling your property and want to check how much your home is worth? You can get an Instant Valuation here.
For further information on lettings, help, or to book a rental valuation, please contact our Lettings Manager, Hamad, and the Acres Lettings team on 0121 312 4997 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
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 be
