Author: Dean
Should I Put Christmas Decorations Up If I’m Selling My House? 3 Pros and Cons
December 8th, 2023
Are you asking yourself “should I put Christmas decorations up if I’m selling my house?”
This is a great question because, of course, not all buyers will appreciate your décor. In fact, research by Get Agent has shown that 38% of potential buyers said that if they were put off viewing a property during the festive period because of gaudy decorations, they wouldn’t bother returning after the festive season for a look!
But selling your home at Christmas doesn’t mean you have to be all ‘bah humbug’ for the entire festive season. There are some things you can do to spruce up your property in Birmingham the right way, as long as you keep it simple.
To help you sell your Birmingham home and to answer the question: “should I put Christmas decorations up if I’m selling my house”, here are our top tips on decorating your home at Christmas that won’t impact your sale.
Should I Put Christmas Decorations Up If I’m Selling My House?
3 Things To Avoid
1. Decorating Before the Professional Photos
While it may be tempting to put up your decorations before the official photographer has stopped by, don’t. We will always aim to sell your home as quickly as possible. But sometimes, a sale can take a few months before the right buyer shows up. If this happens, people browsing your listing after Christmas will spot the decorations and may imagine your property is sticking on the market. Don’t take the risk!
2. Outdoor Christmas Decorations
24% of people surveyed said they would be deterred from viewing a property listed for sale if it had loud outdoor Christmas lights and decorations.
If you usually light up the exterior of your property like a Christmas tree, give the full-on ‘Times Square’ treatment a miss this year! Kerb appeal is the first impression a buyer will have of your home. If you have a climbing Santa, inflatable reindeer, and flashing lights everywhere, this can be a huge turn-off.
Keep it simple. Add a sophisticated wreath to the front door and hang strings of lights that sparkle in trees if you want something a little more subtle outside.
3. Christmas Window Displays
Natural light is a huge selling point. If you have snow frosting, swinging elves and sprayed-on snowflakes covering all your windows, this could hinder the amount of natural light coming in. To keep things looking the way they usually do, keep the windows clear and festive free.
3 Things You Can Do to Decorate at Christmas
1. Keep Festive Decorations Subtle
When a buyer walks in, you want them to notice the space. Decorations can distract buyers from the important things. It can even put them off your home entirely. To keep things neutral, stick to a Christmas tree and a few festive items that are small or subtle.
2. Opt For Neutral Christmas Colours
We know that bright reds and greens are cheery at Christmas. But too many colours can damage the overall vibe of your home. If you’re going to decorate, keep the colours neutral or opt for silver and gold. The same applies to any tree lights. Ditch the multi-coloured bulbs and opt for a warm or cool LED light instead.
3. Add Festive Smells
A fresh and inviting smell in your home can help it stand out to buyers. It can even make your home appear cleaner and more appealing. A great way of making your home feel festive when you’re selling is to add pleasant smells, like cinnamon, mulled wine or sweet cookies. A scent that isn’t too overpowering can help you feel festive without putting buyers off.
So, to answer the question “should I put Christmas decorations up if I’m selling my house” if you do decorate your home, the best plan is to keep it sophisticated and simple.
What Next?
Ready to find a new property in Birmingham this Christmas? Need a valuation? As your local Birmingham estate agent, I can help.
Dean Coleman Powered by eXp is here to help. Take a look at our website to find out more about property for sale in Birmingham or to book a valuation, and give me a call on 07581 875215.
Birmingham Property Prep: Preparing Your Home For Winter
November 30th, 2023
If you’re a homeowner in Birmingham, preparing your home for winter is a job for right now! With strong winds, rain, storms, frost and snow all likely, we’ve put together three top tips to help you get your home in good shape for the winter season.
Winter Tip 1. Maintain Warmth To Avoid Mould
A key thing to do when preparing your home for winter is to ensure the temperature is warm enough to guard against damp and mould. Mould not only damages and devalues properties but can also have a negative impact on your family’s health. Importantly, allergic reactions to mould can make respiratory problems worse. Your home should be kept at a constant temperature of 18-21 degrees Celsius so that damp problems don’t develop.
While you’re looking at ways of keeping your home warm, bear in mind that cold air may be entering your property through doors and windows. Use a draft excluder at your doors and hang thick curtains to make a significant difference.
Winter Tip 2. Keep Your Home Watertight
If there’s one thing you can be sure of during the winter, it’s that it will rain! Ensuring your property gets rid of all the excess water effectively is essential during wet weather. Make sure your guttering is free from debris and works as it should. There should be no gaps to cause leaks, as this could result in your property developing a damp problem. Make sure that water is draining away effectively through your drainpipes by removing any leaves, moss, and twigs.
Check your roof tiles for any gaps. Look into your loft space, and if you can see daylight, arrange for a qualified tradesperson to fix the problem.
Finally, ensure your water tank and pipes are lagged. If there’s a sudden cold snap, pipes can easily burst, so protecting them is the best way to guard against having to claim on your insurance.
Winter Tip 3. Stormproof Your Home
Storms are another common winter problem. Ensure you’ve tidied up and stored away anything in your garden which could damage your property in Birmingham (or someone else’s) if there are high winds. For example, garden furniture, parasols and barbecues. When preparing your home for winter, checking your roof tiles is imperative to ensure they don’t loosen and fly off during a storm.
Check whether your home is at risk of flooding. With more areas now experiencing flooding, you should find out if your home lies in an at-risk area. You should also make sure that your home insurance is up to date and offers you sufficient protection if you need to make a claim.
What Next?
Ready to find a new property in Birmingham this winter? Need a valuation? As your local Birmingham estate agent, I can help.
Dean Coleman Powered by eXp is here to help. Take a look at our website to find out more about property for sale in Birmingham or to book a valuation, and give me a call on 07581 875215.
Moving Home Checklist – Moving In Birmingham Made Easy
November 23rd, 2023
Moving can be an exciting yet stressful time for anyone. It’s not just the physical move that can take its toll, but the planning and preparation too. So, to ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible, we’ve created a moving home checklist to help you plan and prepare for moving day.
Start Your Checklist Plan Early
Moving home can be overwhelming especially when you have a lot of belongings. To make things easier, start planning early. Give yourself enough time to figure out the logistics and gather moving supplies. It’s recommended to start six to eight weeks before your completion date.
Take the time to declutter and decide what items to keep, sell, donate, or throw away. Starting early means you have enough time to sell or give away things you won’t need in your new place.
Choose the Right Removal Company
After creating your moving home checklist, it’s time to choose the right removal company to suit your requirements. Research moving companies in your area and read their reviews. Get quotes from different movers to compare prices and services.
Choose a company that is licensed, insured, and has a good reputation for delivering quality service. Ask for recommendations from friends or family who have recently moved. A reliable moving company will carefully handle your belongings and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
Get Your Belongings Packed Up
Packing your belongings can be time-consuming and exhausting. Using the right packing supplies and having a system in place is essential.
Start by gathering all the necessary packing materials such as boxes, tape, labels, and bubble wrap. Use sturdy boxes to prevent them from collapsing during the move. Wrap fragile items individually in bubble wrap or towels to protect them from any potential damage.
When packing, be systematic. Start with one room at a time, labelling each box with the contents and the room it belongs to. This will make unpacking much easier when you arrive at your new home. You can also colour-code your boxes based on the rooms they belong to, making it even simpler to organize and unpack.
Packing an essentials box with items you’ll need on your first night in your new home is also important. Things like toiletries, bedding, a few changes of clothes, and essential electronics should be packed separately so you can quickly get to them when you first settle in.
Notify Your Utility Companies and Change Your Address
It’s essential to notify your utility companies to transfer or turn off your services as early as possible. This applies to gas, water, electricity, telephone, wifi, and cable services. Contact each provider and inform them of your moving date and new address.
Don’t forget to inform your friends, family, and bank. Consider setting up post re-direction with Royal Mail for any correspondence that may arrive at your old address.
You should also list all the organisations and subscriptions you need to notify about your change of address. This can include your employers, insurance providers, credit card companies, and any other memberships or subscriptions you have. Making a thorough checklist will ensure you don’t miss any important notifications.
Take Care of Your Cleaning Requirements
Before handing over your keys, clean your old home ready for its new owners. You can choose to do this yourself or hire professional cleaners. If you do it yourself, start early to leave enough time to make sure it’s spick and span.
If you rented your previous home, getting your full deposit refunded will depend on the cleanliness of your property. A professional cleaning company can help you get your old house sparkling clean and ensure you get your deposit back!
Additionally, don’t forget to clean your new home before you start unpacking. It’s much easier to clean an empty space, and it will make settling in much more enjoyable. Wipe down surfaces, vacuum and mop the floors, and thoroughly clean the bathroom and kitchen.
Stay Organised with a Moving Day Timeline
As moving day approaches, creating a moving day timeline is helpful. This timeline will outline all the tasks that need to be completed on the day of the move. It will ensure that everything runs smoothly and nothing is forgotten.
Start with tasks such as disconnecting and packing electronics, defrosting the freezer, and disassembling furniture. Make sure to plan for moving your pets safely or arrange for their care during the move.
On the day, have a moving home checklist of items to cross-check before leaving your old home, such as turning off all the lights, locking windows and doors, and handing over keys to the new owner or landlord.
What Next?
Moving can be a challenging experience, but with the proper planning and preparation, you can make the process much smoother. Keep this handy moving home checklist safe or for more home moving planning and preparation advice, talk to Dean Coleman Powered by eXp.
You can call me on 07581 875215 or email me at dean.coleman@exp.uk.com and I’ll be happy to ensure your home move is a smooth one!
Staging A House On A Budget – Impress Buyers Looking for Property In Birmingham Without Breaking the Bank
November 16th, 2023
Selling your property in Birmingham is an exciting but often challenging time. To attract potential buyers and secure an offer, you may be thinking of staging a house on a budget! Indeed, to present your home in the best possible light, home staging is a worthwhile consideration.
While professional staging services can be costly, you don’t need to drain your savings to make your property stand out. In this guide, put together by Dean Coleman Powered by eXp we’ll explore budget-friendly tips and strategies for staging your house on a budget when it’s on the market, ensuring it appeals to and catches the eye of prospective buyers.
Maximising Kerb Appeal When Home Staging
First impressions are crucial. When potential buyers drive up to your property, what they see from the outside can greatly influence their perception of your home.
Here are some cost-effective ways to enhance your property’s kerb appeal:
- Tidy Up the Exterior – Start by giving your home’s exterior a thorough cleaning. This includes cleaning windows and removing any cobwebs or debris. Also consider a fresh coat of paint on the front door as a bright focal point.
- Landscaping – You don’t need a professional landscaper to spruce up your outdoor space. Trim overgrown bushes, cut the lawn and add some colourful potted plants or flowers near the entrance. These small touches can make a big difference to how your property is perceived.
- Lighting – Consider adding outdoor lighting to create a warm and inviting atmosphere, especially for evening viewings. Solar-powered lights along the pathway or string lights on the porch are budget-friendly and visually appealing.
Interior Improvements on a Budget
Once you’ve captivated potential buyers with your home’s exterior, it’s time to focus on the interior. Here’s how to make your property look its best without spending a fortune:
- Declutter and Depersonalise – Begin by decluttering your home. For example, remove excess furniture, personal items, and anything that makes spaces feel crowded. A clutter-free environment helps potential buyers imagine their own belongings in the space.
- Fresh Paint and Repairs – A fresh coat of paint can transform a room. Stick to neutral colours like cream, or light grey to appeal to a broad range of buyers. Additionally, tackle any minor repairs such as leaky taps, loose doorknobs, or squeaky hinges.
- Rearrange Furniture – You don’t need to buy new furniture to stage your home effectively. Try rearranging your existing furniture to create an open and inviting layout to make a significant difference. Aim for a balanced and spacious feel in each room.
Staged Homely Touches that Make a Difference
To truly impress potential buyers, consider adding some homely touches in order to create an emotional connection with the space.
These small investments below can yield significant returns:
- Fresh Flowers and Greenery – A vase of fresh flowers or a potted plant in the living room or kitchen can add a touch of nature and freshness to your home. After all, who doesn’t like a simple and effective way to make the space feel welcoming!
- Soft Furnishings – Invest in some inexpensive throws, pillows, cushions, and decorative blankets to add pops of colour and texture to your furniture. You can also add patterns with curtains or blinds. These accessories can instantly update the look of a room.
- Mood Lighting – Good lighting can make your home feel warm and inviting. For example, swap outdated light fixtures for modern, budget-friendly options, and ensure all bulbs are working and emit a soft, pleasant glow.
Marketing Your Staged Property
Staging your home is just one part of the equation. You also need to effectively market your property to attract potential buyers and estate agents:
- High-Quality Photos – If your budget allows always invest in a professional photography package to showcase your staged home. High-quality images are essential for online listings and marketing materials. Your estate agent will be able to advise you on this.
- Detailed Listings – Before you sign-off the marketing of your property with your estate agent, ensure the property listing includes engaging, accurate and detailed descriptions, highlighting the key features that make your home stand out.
- Open Houses and Viewings – Allow potential buyers to experience your home in full by creating a welcoming atmosphere. Turn lights on, open windows, light the fire if it’s season appropriate and be prepared to answer any questions.
Create a Welcoming and Appealing Environment
Staging a house on a budget is entirely achievable with some creativity and resourcefulness. Remember, it’s all about creating a welcoming and visually appealing environment that allows potential buyers to imagine themselves living in the property.
What Next?
If you would like more ideas for staging your home or are thinking of selling your property in Birmingham then get in touch with Dean Coleman Powered by eXp. I would love to hear from you. Email dean.coleman@exp.uk.com or call 07581 875215. I’m looking forward to helping you achieve your next move.
School Catchment Areas and Property Prices: Information for Homebuyers in Birmingham
November 9th, 2023
When it comes to purchasing a property in Birmingham, many prospective buyers focus on the concept of school catchment areas and how that can impact their child’s educational future and the value of their property. This article explores this important topic, and offers key information for buyers considering property in Birmingham. Importantly, as an estate agent in Birmingham, I am here to offer you my knowledge and help you navigate these waters effectively.
Understanding School Catchment Areas in the UK
A school catchment area refers to a geographic area from which a school draws its students. Understanding your prospective home’s catchment area can help you determine your child’s chances of getting into a local school and whether the property value might be influenced by this factor.
So, how do you find your school catchment area? First check Birmingham council’s website for a dedicated schools section. You’ll see a postcode search functionality to find local schools information. In addition, third-party websites like Find a School by Locrating, Good Schools Guide, and School Guide offer reliable and comprehensive services.
Who Decides Catchment Areas, and How Are They Determined?
School catchment areas are decided by either the local education authority or the school itself. They’re generally based on several factors, including:
- Geographical Proximity: The areas closest to the school are often prioritised, particularly if there is a dense population.
- Presence of Siblings: Children who already have siblings that attend the school may be given precedence, regardless of their exact location.
- Faith-Based Policies: Some religious schools might prioritise children who subscribe to the faith.
However, remember that these areas are fluid. School capacity, population growth, and other circumstantial changes can lead to catchment areas being altered. Frequent updates from schools or local councils can help keep you informed.
The Decision on School Placement: Who Makes That Call?
Ultimately, the school in Birmingham your child attends is determined through a process of your selection and the local authority’s allocation rules. The application process asks parents to rank their preferred schools. The local authority then assigns places based on these preferences while keeping to each school’s individual admission policy.
If your top preference is oversubscribed, then the authority will look at priority criteria (like catchment area or sibling presence) to make the allocation. Hence, a strong grasp of your chosen school’s admission protocols can ensure greater success in securing a place.
The Matter of Distance: How is it Measured?
The method of measurement used to calculate the distance between your home and the school varies across local authorities. Some common approaches include:
- Straight-line Distance: A straightforward distance calculation between the address points of your home and the school.
- Walking Route: The shortest, safest route involving footpaths and necessary roads.
- Driving Route: A consideration of the shortest driving route, inclusive of one-way roads and other potential restrictions.
Understanding the method your local authority uses to measure distance can significantly influence whether your child gets a place in a specific school.
The Impact of School Catchment Areas on Birmingham Property Prices
School catchment areas significantly influence property prices. Homes within the catchment areas of highly-rated schools frequently command higher prices than those in less preferred areas. This happens because families, placing high importance on their children’s education, create an increased demand.
Research shows that if a property is located within the catchment area of a top-performing school, it could see its value increase by up to 10% — the exact amount, however, will depend on the specific market and area. Therefore, gaining a clear understanding of the school catchment landscape can greatly benefit your child’s education and enhance the value of your new home investment.
Final Thoughts
Purchasing a home is a significant step, and when your child’s education is involved, understanding the concept and dynamics of school catchment areas becomes crucial. By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate these criteria and make the best decision for your family’s future.
What Next?
Wondering how can you sell your house in a difficult market and move to your chosen school catchment area? I can help, and the time to act is now.
Contact Dean Coleman Powered by eXp on 07581 875215 or email dean.coleman@exp.uk.com. I’m looking forward to helping you achieve your next move.
How Can You Sell Your House In A Difficult Market? Tips for Selling Your Property In Birmingham During Challenging Times
November 2nd, 2023
With winter on the horizon, shorter days and darker evenings we are entering a season not typically associated with increased property sales. Interest rates and inflation are still in the news and Birmingham’s housing market is anything but traditional at the moment. So, you may be wondering how can you sell your house in a difficult market?
Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of selling your property in Birmingham when the market isn’t entirely in your favour. Because – with the right estate agent, and some preparation, it can be done!
Consult with Your Birmingham Estate Agent: Dean Coleman Powered by eXp
First things first, have an in-depth conversation with your estate agent in Birmingham, and not just about settling on an asking price. Marketing your home is a ball game that goes beyond just listing your property on property portals like Rightmove and Zoopla!
Your agent can offer invaluable advice on reducing your property’s time on the market and achieving the best price for you. But it doesn’t hurt to equip yourself with additional strategies to navigate a challenging housing market.
The Power of Open House Viewings
How can you sell your house in a difficult market? Use the open house strategy, traditionally more prevalent in the United States, but gradually gaining traction here in the UK. During an open house, your property is marketed as available for viewings for a specific time – say, a morning or an entire weekend. The event is publicised on your estate agent’s website, social media, and through direct invitations to ‘hot buyers’ – those eager, qualified buyers that agents keep tabs on.
The perk? You only need to host one big viewing session and can concentrate all your house-prepping efforts into squeezing every opportunity out of that event.
The Art of Home Staging
Staging an empty home can make a world of difference in helping prospective buyers visualize their life in your property. Instead of showcasing barren rooms, consider investing in rental furniture to fill the space thoughtfully. Furnishing an empty dining room with a table, chairs, and perhaps some elegant place settings can create an inviting atmosphere.
But don’t stop at the big furniture pieces; think details. Fresh flowers, coffee table books, or a stylish rug can add the perfect finishing touches. Sometimes it’s these little flourishes that stick in people’s minds and make your property stand out.
Sprucing Up with Home Styling
If you are still living in the property and it’s furnished, then a professional home stylist can elevate its appeal. A stylist can recommend a range of low-cost yet high-impact enhancements, from modern wall art to strategically-placed lamps that create warm, inviting spaces. Think of this as the “lipstick and mascara” for your home; small touches that make a big difference.
Colour coordination is another critical aspect. Your stylist might suggest introducing throws, blankets, or curtains that complement the existing décor. It’s about creating a cohesive aesthetic that tells a story, making your property not just a building but a potential home for buyers.
You may also be interested in How To Get Your Birmingham Property Photo Ready
Is Now a Good Time to Sell a House?
While the UK market is showing resilience, it’s essential to recognise that local markets like Birmingham may vary. So, is now a good time to sell a house? The answer could differ depending on your specific area.
If you find that you need to pull out all the stops to attract a buyer, the strategies above can be invaluable. As always, discuss your situation with a knowledgeable estate agent in Birmingham.
By implementing these tips and working closely with your estate agent in Birmingham, you’re setting the stage for a successful sale – even in a difficult market. So why wait?
What Next?
Wondering how can you sell your house in a difficult market? I can help and the time to act is now.
Contact Dean Coleman Powered by eXp on 07581 875215 or email dean.coleman@exp.uk.com. I’m looking forward to helping you achieve the best price for your home.
Should I List My Property For Sale If I Haven’t Found One To Buy?
July 22nd, 2023
It’s Often Best To List Your Property For Sale Before You Find A New Home
I am often asked whether sellers in Birmingham should find a property to buy before listing their home for sale on the property market. With this in mind, here is my expert advice.
In my experience, you should list your property for sale before you find a new home.
Why? Read on to find out more.
You’ll Have A Stronger Negotiating Position When You Find The Perfect Property To Buy
Homeowners in the current climate are unlikely to accept offers from buyers with a property to sell that isn’t yet on the market. If you list your home for sale, it proves that you are serious about moving. If you already have a purchaser for your home, you’re in an even better position. You’ll be able to make an offer on your chosen property and will be able to confidently proceed with the knowledge that your moving foundations have been firmly established.
Even if you don’t find a property you love straight away, that isn’t a problem. If your home is listed for sale, you have a head start. You don’t need to rush into selling, particularly if you haven’t found another home yet. You also have more time to play with. You have a chance to research new prospective areas and plan what you’re going to do next.
You’ll Be Helping To Maintain Movement In The Local Property Market
If everyone who ever wanted to move chose to wait until they’d found another property to purchase before listing their property for sale, there would be no homes available for purchase at all! That would lead to an enormous local property market gridlock which would, in turn, impact property prices and delay the process of moving.

What Should I Do Before Listing My Home For Sale?
Getting a valuation for your existing home is the first thing to do if you’re ready to move as this will give you a chance to arrange your budget and finances for the move. Once you’ve done this, talk to a mortgage advisor who will be able to help you find the right deal to suit your needs. Once you have all this information, it’s time to list your property for sale.
Here are a few things you should do before instructing an estate agent to market your property in Birmingham:
- Research the areas where you may wish to buy and the type of property you’d like to purchase
- Stay on top of the local property market
- Get your paperwork organised and instruct a firm of reputable solicitors
- Obtain pre-approval for a mortgage – a Decision in Principle (DIP) to show you are a serious buyer
- Find a reputable estate agent in Nottingham to list your home on the market
Being a personal and bespoke Estate Agent with eighteen years’ experience, I can help you find the perfect buyer for your property. Call me today on 07581875215 or check out my website to learn more about how I can help you.

What Type of Survey Do I Need When Buying A Home? – Birmingham Estate Agent
July 10th, 2023
Buying a house in Birmingham is such an exciting time. Looking at areas, looking at different styles of property, different gardens, locations, schools, transport links….and of course, no one loves looking at property more than us! We adore it when our clients find the home of their dreams and move in ready to start a new chapter.
But wait. Of course, there’s more to buying a house in Birmingham than simply falling in love with it. You have to make sure it’s a sound property and isn’t going to cause you headaches and turn your dream into a nightmare.
And that’s where surveys come in. A home survey will help you decide whether it’s a green for go or a bright red STOP right now.
Here, I explain the surveys you’ll need to consider when buying a home in Birmingham.
But first…one of the questions we get asked most often is:
Do I really need a home survey?
The answer is probably, yes. Why? For two reasons really. Firstly, you may love the house you’ve found, but think about this.
- Is it structurally safe?
- Is it going to need rewiring or things fixing?
- Are lots of works required to bring it up to standard?
If it’s going to cost you a lot of money and lots of time to correct, is it really the right house for you?
Conversely, if a survey suggests you need to make repairs worth thousands and you still want the place, you could potentially ask the seller to reduce the asking price.
In a Nutshell: A survey gives you security that the property is right for you.
Is a home survey a legal requirement?
Actually, no, it’s not a legal requirement to have a home survey done on a house that you are buying. You may look at the costs of having a survey done and think the cash is better off in your own pocket. But we would always respectfully suggest that you seriously think about commissioning a survey. If it’s a new house, then the survey you need won’t be as expensive as a full survey on an older property that may have issues. If you have a survey that flags up issues, it could save you money in the long run.
In a Nutshell: Take a step back from the emotional thinking and think of your money and your investment, because that’s what you’re spending your money on.

Is a home survey the same as a mortgage survey?
No! As a condition of getting a mortgage approval, you may well have to get a survey done on the property you want. This is a survey the lender will do – via an independent surveyor – to make sure that they can be confident the property is worth what it is on the market for. A survey of this type isn’t anywhere near as in depth as a proper, structural survey and sometimes is done from a distance.
In a Nutshell: Your lender survey and home survey are two different elements of the home buying process. If you need help clarifying what type of survey you require, just ask me and I’ll help explain. I like to talk in plain English and would love to help.
What’s in a survey?
The type and level of survey very much depends on what sort of property you are looking to purchase.
Condition Report
If you are eying up a newbuild, which should come with a warranty and certain guarantees, you should be looking at a low-level survey – a Condition Report. These typically cost a few hundred pounds and take a couple of hours to be completed.
Homebuyers Report
Then there’s a Homebuyers Report, which costs a little more and is also a little more in depth, usually containing advice on what needs to be done. You can see why these might be needed for an older property.
Full Building Survey
A full Building Survey – now this does cost more but is very thorough. It’s ideal for an older property or one that is perhaps unusual. You need to make sure that the house you are buying is structurally safe and this will tell you everything – warts and all.
In a Nutshell: Your surveyor should be a “a member of a recognised governing body such as the Residential Property Surveyors Association (RPSA) or Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors”. Choose your survey based on what you need, not on the cost.
What happens next?
Your survey may well point out some defects and highlight what works needs to be done. You need to properly assess whether this is something you either want to do or can afford to do.
In a Nutshell: Weigh it all up, don’t scrimp on costs, and make sure you know exactly what needs doing and whether you are prepared to take it on. Should you need further advice on surveys, please get in touch, I am more than happy to advise you. Email me at dean.coleman@exp.uk.com or call me on 07581875215.

6 Things You Should Know Before Getting a Loft Conversion in Birmingham.
February 9th, 2023
Converting your loft into a bedroom is a great option for many homeowners in Birmingham. It can help growing families maximise their space, stay in their home for longer, and even get a great return when it comes to selling up in the future. But while there are many positives, there are some downsides to consider, too.
If you’re thinking about getting a loft conversion in your Birmingham home, here are some of the pros and cons to consider before you commit.
Pros of Getting a Loft Conversion
1. Boosts Resale Value
One of the biggest benefits of converting your loft into a bedroom ensuite is the value it can add to your home. In some areas, a loft conversion can increase your house price by as much as 20%! If your home is already valued at a high price, this could be a significant increase.
2. Good Value For Money
Loft conversions often provide better value for money than extending your property outwards. Since the foundations are already there, the cost is often cheaper per square meterage. Plus, as you go up instead of out, you also won’t need to sacrifice any of your garden or side of house space. Instead, you’ll be maximising the space you already have available.
3. Reduces Energy Bills
It’s not very well known, but another pro of getting a loft conversion is that it can help reduce your energy bills. Because of the extra insulation that’s added to your loft, it can boost the overall energy efficiency of your entire house.
Cons of Getting a Loft Conversion
1. Takes Time
While most home renovation work can be done in a few days or weeks, a loft conversion can take significantly longer. From start to finish, a conversion can take an average of two months to complete, which doesn’t include the weeks of cleaning and touching up you’ll need to do afterwards. Before converting, consider how you can undertake the work in a way that minimises disruption to your daily life.
2. Reduces Storage Space
As most homeowners know, you can never have too much storage space! A loft is often a great selling point because of the storage space it provides when unconverted. Converting the area into a bedroom can significantly reduce the storage capacity of your home. As most people keep hefty items like suitcases and Christmas decorations in the loft, you’ll need to make sure you have space elsewhere for these things.
3. Creates Extra Work Elsewhere
Sometimes, the loft conversion can damage other things in your home and create more work elsewhere. Things like the plaster, carpets and even the paintwork may need to be redone if they have been damaged in the process. When budgeting for your loft conversion, make sure you factor in extra costs and added time to fix other issues the construction work can cause.
Thinking About Resale Value?
Are you thinking about converting your Birmingham loft, but are worried about the resale value? Being your local property expert in the Birmingham area, I can provide honest and knowledgeable advice and a valuation based on eighteen experience selling homes.
Get in touch today to book a home valuation with myself on 07581875215 or via email at dean.coleman@exp.uk.com.
New Year, New Estate Agent to sell your Birmingham Home?!
December 29th, 2022
We’ve noticed a trend recently. You love your home, you love Birmingham, but you’ve also realised that you need somewhere new. Perhaps somewhere larger, somewhere with a bigger garden, somewhere closer to the countryside, or even somewhere a little smaller.
Yes, it appears you’ve got a dose of ‘ready to move’, and what better time than the New Year – a time often linked with new beginnings and fresh starts.
So, how do you find the best estate agent?
What questions should you ask?
As an eighteen year property expert in Birmingham and surrounding areas, I thought I’d give you my seven tips so that you can choose the best estate agent for you.
Phone a Friend
Ask for recommendations. Friends and family can point you in the right direction and equally they can steer you away from the agents to avoid! Ask them if they’ve had a great experience with a particular estate agent, and enquire about how communicative, knowledgeable and friendly the agent was. Did the agent get the job done – and achieve the asking price or above?
Tip: Social media is your friend! If you’re a member of a Facebook community group in a particular area, post your questions in that group. And while you’re there check out local estate agents’ profiles to discover more about their local area knowledge and understand how they interact with the local community.
Read Reviews
Check out estate agents reviews online. Facebook reviews, Google reviews and reviews on Feefo can all give you an insight into other customers experiences. Have a read through to get a good idea as to whether or not an agent is worth shortlisting.
Tip: Always have an open mind when reading reviews, because while most will be genuine, some negative ones (and some positive ones) may not be.

Check the Agents Website
If you have a couple of shortlisted estate agents, check out their websites. Compare and contrast the services they offer and the fees they charge. Research where they market their properties and check out their social media feeds.
Tip: If you’re comparing and contrasting, you need to ensure you know what you want your chosen estate agent to do for you. Write a wish list of your requirements.
Check Fees and T&Cs
When it comes to estate agents, each will offer a slightly different service, and each will have a different way of operating. You have high street offices, internet-based offices, and hybrid agencies that blend traditional with the internet. Each has its advantages and disadvantages depending on your individual requirements, but always check the small print and look at the overall service. ALSO, CHECK THE TIE-IN PERIOD or CONTRACT LENGTH!!! I’ve seen agents entrap sellers into three month+ contracts with a further one month notice period. That’s a long time to be shackled to an Estate Agent for, especially if you’re not happy.
Tip: Do some research and decide whether you want a sole agency agreement, or if you would like multiple agents to market your property. It’s important to read the contractual obligations if you choose the latter.
Review your Agent’s Performance
Remember, your estate agent will be working for you, to get your house marketed and sold. But it’s actually a two-way thing and you will need to do what you can to help them do their job too. Your agent should be prepared to communicate with you if they think things should change, like a review of the price for example. And you should feel confident enough to ask about performance and see results or otherwise. You surely want an Estate Agent to tell you what you need to know and what to do, rather than what you want hear and do what you think…we’re the professionals after all!
Tip: Have a clear understanding of your expectations and what you will want to review. Is it the number of people shown your property, or is it the number of hits on property websites? Is it about proactive calls made to prospective buyers, or is it to get an offer within a certain timeframe?
Same Difference
When you are narrowing down your shortlist, have a look at the properties that the agent sells.
- Are they similar to your house?
- Do they have any experience selling homes similar to your property?
- Can they talk with good knowledge about the local area?
- How accurate are their valuations?
- How many properties have they reduced and how regularly do they do it? Could be a sign of over-valuing JUST to win the business!
All of these are a must because you need to know that your agent knows what they are doing and can convey that to a prospective buyer.
Tip: If you want to know how much similar properties have sold for have a look online so that you are fully informed.
Trust your Gut Instinct
There’s a lot to be said for getting a feel for whether you have picked the right agent to market your property. Something may simply click into place when you’re having a conversation, or you may know immediately that the agent is for you. Trust your instinct as it may well be right. However do bear in mind, that lovely, kind, personable and trustworthy Valuer who you have visit your home, more often than not disappears after you come onto the market. Why? Well they’ve done their job, hit their target and maybe earnt a commission. So you’re left in the hands of a negotiator team who you’ve got to build rapport with, build trust and hope they’ve had a say in the marketing price and strategy. In my experience, that very rarely happens.
Tip: While we say trust your instinct, make sure you also carry out the checks and reviews as well!
For no-obligation advice on selling your Birmingham home, please contact me directly on 07581875215 or by email at dean.coleman@exp.uk.com seven days a week.
