Latest News

Details

Published: 16 September 2025

Hits: 1093

Looking for advice on how to buy a house? You’ve come to the right place.

It’s no secret that the housing market has been incredibly busy in recent months with house prices going through the roof. For buyers, it's hard to stand out, with so few properties on the market and so much competiton. There is some good news on the horizon though...

Things are starting to settle down, amid falling interest rates and more settled inflation. 11% of homes have had their price cut by more than 5% since September, according to property portal Zoopla. And more properties are now coming to the sales market. 

If you're looking to move soon, we’ve compiled a helpful step-by-step guide to give you the best possible chance to secure your dream home and ensure your purchase is as stress-free as possible.

1. Save, save, save! 

Look to save at least 10 to 20% of the cost of the home you would like to buy.

Top tip: remember to factor in additional costs like solicitor fees, mortgage fees, survey costs and buildings insurance. As your local property professionals, we’re always here to help support you and offer advice on moving costs.

2. Get a mortgage agreement in principle

This is an estimate of how much you could potentially borrow from a bank or building society. Bear in mind it’s not a formal mortgage offer but it means you can show agents that it’s likely you’ll be able to afford the property you want to buy.   Get expert mrtgage advice here ~ https://acres-fs.co.uk/

3. Identify an up and coming area

When searching for a new home, it’s important to look beyond the four walls of the property. 

One way to get ahead and make the market work for you is to find a part of town that is affordable yet offers an increasing amount of amenities due to a new demographic of people moving into the area. 

According to our property expert, and Manager of Acres Four Oaks office Chris Harvey, the top four signs you should look out for in an up and coming area;

• Young professionals are a great indicator of potential growth. If you can spot people in their twenties and thirties choosing a specific area, it's almost inevitable that local house prices there will increase.
• New delicatessens, pubs, restaurants and independent coffee shops suggest that there is new demand in the area from people with disposable income. 
• Nearby public transport links that give local residents access to schools, workplaces and central locations will inevitably attract more people to the area. 
• Regeneration can greatly improve the quality of life in a specific area. Chances are if money is being pumped into a neighbourhood, the house prices there are likely to grow.

4. Find a good buyer ~ Acres of course.

Acres are here to make your buying process as simple and smooth as possible. We will provide you with daily updates of new properties, and if you contact your local office, we will give you advice and tips on the local area.

You should plan for multiple property viewings. Do your research and get to know the local market really well. If you need a little extra area advice, talk to us..

5. Make an offer

Once you’ve found what you’re looking for, it’s time to make an offer. Think carefully about what you would be willing to pay, if you go too low you risk not being seen as a serious buyer, so make sure your offer is realistic. Equally, don’t go in too high and miss the mark completely. Remember your estate agents will be on hand to help to support you through the offer process.

6. What happens after you’ve made an offer?

Well, this can go one of two ways. The estate agent will call you back and tell you that your offer has been accepted. In this case, it’s time to breathe a sigh of relief and move on to step 7. If not, you might want to repeat the process again with a higher offer. Again, our agents are able to do all the negotiations on your behalf.

7. Arrange a mortgage

If you need to arrange a mortgage we can help through our associated company Acres Financial Services. They can compare thousands of mortgage deals from a panel of high street and specialist lenders (subject to status and lender criteria).   Get expert mrtgage advice here ~ https://acres-fs.co.uk/

8. Appoint a property lawyer / conveyancer

Once you've had your offer accepted and confirmed your mortgage, it's time to think about who you want to handle the legal side of things. A property lawyer will take charge of conducting searches, liaising with the seller’s lawyer, inspecting the seller’s documents, dealing with the Land Registry and all that fun stuff. This role is critical to keeping your house purchase on track so do your research.b

9. Get a survey

Sorted your mortgage and property lawyer? Great.

It’s survey time. A survey isn’t compulsory, but it’s definitely advisable. If you don’t get one and you come across unforeseen structural issues once you’ve bought the property, it would just be hard luck. Don’t be one of those people that rely on the mortgage valuation or you might find yourself forking out thousands of pounds later down the line. Give yourself peace of mind by having a survey conducted.

The HomeFact Report, RICS HomeBuyer Survey, RICS HomeBuyer Survey & Valuation and the RICS Building Survey are your main options. 

10. Arrange buildings insurance

How important is buildings insurance? Well, take this example – as soon as the contracts are exchanged, you’re legally bound to buy the property. If the building were to burn down the day before completion and you weren’t insured, you’d have to pay every penny of the sale price yourself, that's why for many lenders it's a requirement for you to have building insurance prior to completion.

11. Set the completion date

This is the date that you’ll finally move into your new home. Completion usually takes place between one and four weeks after you’ve exchanged contracts. During this time, it might be an idea to find a trustworthy removals company to help get you moving.

12. Exchange contracts and sign the transfer deeds

You’re almost there! Your deposit will now be sent to the seller’s property lawyer, along with the contracts that you signed. Your property lawyer will prepare the transfer deed. Make sure you sign it in the presence of a witness. It confirms you're willing to take ownership of the property.

Once this is complete it means you’re legally bound to purchase the house. Time to put the champagne on ice and celebrate!

13. Completion

You did it. You’re officially a new homeowner – collect the keys and let yourself in. You can now look forward to making the house a home! 

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

Details

Published: 16 September 2025

Hits: 865

As the days grow shorter, the leaves turn golden and the nights draw in, autumn is one of the most atmospheric times of the year. It’s also when we naturally spend more time indoors, so now is the perfect opportunity to create a cosy, welcoming haven at home.

At Acres Estate Agents here in Sutton Coldfield, we see first-hand how the right touches can make a home more comfortable and also more appealing to prospective buyers. With energy efficiency and cost savings in mind, there are plenty of ways to keep your home snug without breaking the bank. Below we’ve gathered some of our favourite ideas – from simple décor tweaks to more practical upgrades – to help you transform your space this season.

Rugs – Simple Yet Impactful

Rugs remain a timeless favourite for adding warmth and personality. Whether your home features hard flooring or carpet, a rug can instantly bring softness underfoot and a sense of comfort. A boldly patterned or textured rug can act as a piece of “floor art,” creating a striking focal point.

Layering rugs – think a smaller patterned rug over a larger neutral base – creates a luxurious, deep-pile effect. It’s also a great way to zone open-plan spaces or add definition to a seating area. With thousands of styles, colours and price points available, there’s a rug for every room and budget.

Extra tip from Acres: If you’re planning to sell, a well-placed rug can make a room look bigger, warmer and more inviting in photographs and during viewings.

Add Warmth and Character With Lighting

As daylight fades, lighting becomes more than just functional – it shapes how a room feels. Instead of relying on a single ceiling light, create a “layered” lighting scheme with floor lamps, table lamps and wall lights. This lets you adjust the ambience to suit your mood, whether it’s bright and energising for working or soft and golden for relaxing evenings.

Warm-toned LED bulbs are energy-efficient yet give a cosy glow. Dimmers are another simple but effective upgrade, enabling you to control brightness and atmosphere at the touch of a switch.

Extra tip from Acres: Highlighting artwork, architectural features or even a fireplace with subtle spot lighting can add depth and sophistication – perfect for making your home memorable to visitors or viewers.

Comforting Colours, Textures and Scents

Colour and texture can completely change the feel of a room. Autumn is the perfect time to introduce richer shades – think deep rust, warm ochre, forest green or burgundy – through cushions, throws and accessories. If you prefer neutrals, layer textures instead: chunky knits, soft velvets and tactile weaves all add warmth and interest.

Throws are wonderfully versatile, doubling as a cosy cover on cold evenings and an attractive accessory during the day. You can also refresh your home affordably by swapping cushion covers, updating lampshades or adding a seasonal centrepiece to your dining table.

And don’t underestimate scent: diffusers, scented candles or simmering citrus-and-spice on the hob can create a welcoming autumnal aroma.

Cosy Curtains and Clever Draught-Proofing

Curtains are more than decoration – they’re a frontline defence against heat loss. Thermal-lined curtains or blinds can cut heat escaping through windows by up to 25%. Door curtains are another traditional yet effective way to stop draughts in their tracks, especially in porches, hallways or conservatories.

You can also upgrade simple touches like draught excluders, door seals and even keyhole covers to retain more warmth. Combined, these small changes can make a noticeable difference to your comfort and your heating bill.

Extra tip from Acres: Buyers are increasingly asking about energy efficiency. Simple upgrades like thermal curtains and draught-proofing can be attractive selling points and a conversation starter during viewings.

Smart Heating and Energy-Saving Tips

It’s not just décor that makes a home feel snug. A modern, programmable thermostat or smart heating system can save money and keep rooms at exactly the right temperature. Heating only the rooms you use regularly and lowering the temperature slightly in unused areas can add up to significant savings.

Bleeding radiators, adding reflective panels behind them and checking insulation in your loft are all quick wins to improve efficiency.

Create a Sleepy Sanctuary

Cooler weather is the perfect excuse to refresh your bedroom. Switching to a higher-tog duvet and flannelette sheets helps maintain the ideal temperature for sleep. Layering with blankets and throws gives you flexibility on nights when the temperature fluctuates.

Consider upgrading pillows or adding a mattress topper for extra comfort. Blackout or thermal curtains can also keep bedrooms warmer and darker for a deeper sleep.

Create Inviting Social Spaces

As we move indoors for autumn, our living and dining areas often become the heart of the home. Rearranging furniture to create a more intimate seating layout, adding a statement centrepiece or hanging a new piece of artwork can breathe fresh life into familiar spaces. If you have a fireplace, dressing the mantel with seasonal decorations or lighting the first fire of the year can create an instant focal point.

Don’t Forget the Outside

Your home’s exterior sets the tone before anyone even steps inside. A swept driveway, a few potted evergreens by the front door and warm outdoor lighting make for a welcoming approach – something prospective buyers always notice. Clear gutters, check roof tiles and seal any gaps now to prevent leaks or draughts later in winter.

Bringing It All Together

With a few thoughtful touches, you can make your home feel warmer, more stylish and more energy-smart this autumn. From rugs and lighting to curtains, bedding and energy efficiency, these changes don’t just enhance your comfort – they can also add real appeal if you’re thinking of selling.

At Acres Estate Agents we’re always happy to chat about ways to make your home stand out in today’s market. Whether you’re looking to sell, buy or simply get some inspiration, feel free to get in touch with our friendly team in Sutton Coldfield.

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.

Want to check how much your home is worth? You can get an Instant Valuation here.  

If you would like to discuss selling your home, please get in touch with us This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call any of our busy, helpful teams/offices:

Four Oaks                              0121 323 3088

Sutton Coldfield                    0121 321 2101

Walmley                                 0121 313 2888

Great Barr                              0121 358 6222

Lettings                                  0121 312 4997

Mortgages                             0121 387 1616

Thank you for reading this article, and your interest in Acres and our property for sale. 

Nigel & Jayne  Deekes – Acres Partners

Details

Published: 14 September 2025

Hits: 1952

If you're looking for some pointers for selling your home during the autumn you’ve come to the right place.  We’ve compiled some tips that can help your property stand out in the market during the autumn. 

Setting the stage for a potential house buyer is crucial in making the right impressions. Remember, you’re not just selling a house, you’re selling a dream or a lifestyle.

Here at Acres Estate Agents we often see autumn as the time when more serious buyers get in touch. These are the ones who will want to see properties to actually move to – they won’t be the tyre-kickers Spring can often bring, just having a nose round to see if a move would be on the cards if they see “ a perfect home “, with no real intention to buy.

Organise early viewings

It can be more of a challenge for your house to stand out in the dark and as the days get shorter, evening viewings don’t always set the best first impression. Homes generally look more appealing during the daytime. 

It might be difficult to organise daytime viewings during the week as people are at work, so it’s a good idea to make time during the weekends to try and accommodate more potential buyers viewing. 

Ensure your house is well-lit

It can be challenging for natural lighting to brighten up your home during the autumn, to combat the issue, it can be worth investing in some nice lighting. For rooms with large windows, be sure to open all the blinds and curtains as nothing beats natural light. However, for rooms that don’t have the luxury of larger windows, be sure to ensure they are well-lit through other means.

Clean the outdoors of fallen leaves

If you’ve got trees and hedges around the garden, you’ll be aware of how much of a mess fallen leaves cause during the autumn. External house maintenance is always important, but even more so whilst you are trying to sell your property. 

Make use of the heating

As the days get shorter, the temperature starts to drop. The last thing you want during a house viewing is for your guests to feel uncomfortable due to being cold, so you’ll want to keep your house a cosy, a nice temperature can go a long way in creating a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere. 

Log burners / real or effect coal fire

Always as an appealing feature, have these lit to make a property feel like a home, and help your buyer imagine a cosy night in, within the heart of your home.

Stand out

If your property goes on the market in the Autumn, it’s more likely to get noticed, compared to the traditional Spring influx of properties to the market. This is particularly true when you see how our exceptional photography will show off your home to its best advantage.

We think it’s best to stand out from the crowd, and Autumn is the ideal time to do that.

Final thoughts

Whilst it can seem impossible to time the sale of your property to perfection, Autumn is a great selling time with buyers thinking of a new home for Christmas and of course, those ever-important school applications being submitted.

If you are looking to sell your property, then Autumn could well be the perfect time for you to sell up and move on.

Yes, Spring is often seen as the best time to sell, but we at Acres also find that autumn proves to be a Buoyant time in the Property Market.

What steps can you make to maximise the appeal?

The obvious one is the presentation of your property. Make sure your garden and the outside of your house deliver maximum curb appeal. It’s surprising what you don’t need so a quick dump run to get rid of the clutter always helps free up space. Ensure you do your research and price your home competitively. Most importantly, choose a good local agent who understands the area. Here at Acres, your local independent estate agents, being a market leader in the North Birmingham area we accordingly have an exceptional knowledge of the locality. This means understanding transport links, local schools, and amenities so that we can quickly show the right buyers the right properties. Make October the month you finally make the move you have always wanted to.

If you were thinking of writing Autumn off, stop. Think about it. Autumn could absolutely be the season for you to show your house off to a potential buyer.   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

Thank you for reading and your interest in Acres and our property for sale. 

Nigel & Jayne  Deekes – Acres Partners

Details

Published: 19 August 2025

Hits: 27184

Modern Method of Auction explained

As the ‘modern method of auction’, also known as conditional auctions, becomes a more common way of selling property, we look at what sellers and buyers need to beware of.

What is the Modern Method of Auction  ( MMoA )  ?

The Modern Method of Auction is a type of property auction you can use to sell or buy a house. Buying and selling with online property auctions offers some advantages on both sides.

Sellers benefit from online property auctions because a substantial reservation fee must be paid upfront by the purchaser so there’s far less chance of them pulling out than with the traditional no sale no fee route.

Added peace of mind

For buyers it gives added peace of mind as once you’ve agreed a sale and paid the Reservation Fee, the property is exclusively reserved for you. Unlike Private Treaty where you're often left worrying the seller might change their mind or accept another offer.

It gives buyers the chance to purchase a property quickly and with no chain. But there are some potential pitfalls for buyers and sellers to consider. Read on for more.