Author: Dean

I’ve noticed a trend recently. You love your home, you love the Birmingham area, 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 a brand new year – a time often linked with new beginnings and fresh starts.

But how do you find the best estate agent in Birmingham ?

What questions should you ask?

As property experts in the Birmingham area, the Dean Coleman Estates Limited team want to share seven of my crucial tips so that you can choose the best estate agent for you.

With over seventeen years industry experience in Birmingham, core values are incorporated into everything I do: Respect, Integrity, Reliability and Passion. I love what I do and have a passion for property! But to be able to help fulfil the dreams of my customers – there’s no greater honour!

1. Phone a Friend

Ask for recommendations. Friends and family can point you in the right direction of the best estate agent in Birmingham and equally they can steer you away from the ones to avoid! Ask them if they’ve had a great experience with a particular 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 Birmingham, post your questions in the group. While you’re there check out estate agents’ profiles to discover more about their local area knowledge and understand how they interact with the local community. Dean Coleman Estates Limited is proactive on social media so feel free to reach out to me with any questions. You can follow me on Facebook and Instagram.

2. Read Reviews

Check out estate agents reviews online. Facebook and Google reviews can 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. I have plenty of happy customers! You can read my reviews here!

Tip: Always have an open mind when reading reviews, because while most will be balanced reviews, some may not be.

3. Check the Estate Agents Website

If you have a shortlist when looking for the best estate agent in Birmingham, check out their websites. Compare the services they offer. Try not to get hung up on fees as the cheapest isn’t always the best service! Research where the agent markets their properties and check out their social media feeds.

Tip: If you’re comparing, you need to ensure you know what you want your chosen estate agent to do for you. Write a wish list of your requirements.

4. Check Fees and T&Cs

When it comes to the best estate agent in Birmingham , each agent will offer a slightly different service, and each will have a different way of operating. You’ll see some with high street offices, some online-only agents, and hybrid agencies that blend traditional with online. Each has its advantages and disadvantages depending on your individual requirements, but always check the small print and look at the overall service.

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.

5. Review your Agents 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 communicate with you if they think things should change, like a review of the asking price for example. And you should feel confident enough to ask about performance and see results or otherwise.

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?

6. Same Difference

When you are narrowing down your shortlist to find the best estate agent in Birmingham, 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?

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.

7. Trust your Gut Instinct

There’s a lot to be said for getting a feel for whether you have picked the best estate agent in Birmingham 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.

Tip: While I say trust your instinct, make sure you also carry out the checks and reviews as well!

For no-obligation advice on selling your Birmingham property, please contact Dean Coleman Estates Limited on 07581 875215 or email me at dean.coleman@exp.uk.com. I’m ready to help you.

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Who doesn’t love a bit of sparkle at Christmas time? We all need some glamour in our lives after working hard all year don’t we!

So, as we get ready to welcome the festive cheer this Christmas, let’s talk about Christmas dining table decoration ideas. This isn’t about going overboard with glitter or spending a fortune. You can add a touch of glamour and a dash of style for little cost. It doesn’t have to be expensive. It’s about simple, creative touches that transform your table into a magical Christmas feast.

From twinkling lights to playful centrepieces, I’ll share some easy, budget-friendly ideas that will make your Christmas dining table shine bright at your Birmingham property. Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or a cosy meal for two, these tips will add that special festive glow to your Christmas dining experience.

It’s time to think about how to add sparkle to your dining room in time for Christmas Day – so here are my five top tips.

1. Set the Scene: Declutter the Dining Room

There’s simply no point in looking for Christmas dining table decoration ideas and making your table deliciously delightful if the rest of the room looks like a dog’s dinner! You may well have set place settings, draped ribbons, placed holly and berries and have it looking beautiful, but if you have to step over discarded toys or waltz around the ironing board and laundry that’s no good! Declutter and remove anything that doesn’t go with your theme and colours for Christmas.

Top Tip: Take the opportunity to really think if you need everything you have on display, or if some items could be packed away. This will also help you consider if you’re using the space to its best all year round.

2. Dreaming of a White Christmas Dining Table Decoration Idea?

We don’t often get snow at Christmas, but it’s synonymous with the festive period. This might be a great time to create a lovely winter wonderland in your dining room. As Christmas dining table decoration ideas think about white cushions or table runners, white candles in white holders, white plates and bowls, and white-handled crockery. You might want to add light-blue glassware, or faux fur throws over the back of each chair for a luxurious touch.

Top Tip: This does not have to be expensive. You’re creating a dining setting, so think about the things you already own and could use. Add a sprinkle of blue glitter on the table to give a dash of colour.

3. Have you Twigged it Yet?

Here’s another low-cost Christmas dining table decoration idea. Bring the landscape to your dining table. A sprig of holly, some mistletoe, pine cones and a couple of twigs tied with a red ribbon, and you have a lovely little decoration.

Pine cones can be collected on winter walks and used in a display too. Sprinkle them with glitter or a gold spray to make them sparkle.

Top Tip: If you collect twigs and pinecones, they can go straight into the compost or garden waste bin after Christmas. You won’t have purchased yet more plastic, and it’s environmentally friendly.

4. Accessories Add Glamour to Your Christmas Dining Table

So your table looks good so far, but a little plain? Accessorise. It’s so simple.

Little strings of lights, battery-operated, can be stretched across the table. Crackers can be placed next to plates. Holly twigs are great Christmas dining table decoration ideas that can bring a touch of green and red to the table. Wooden ornaments can be arranged – if you’ve got room, create a village scene. A Poinsettia plant is associated with Christmas, so you could place one as a focal point. If you have red bead strings for your tree, you could use them on the table too. Sequins and glitter will also help add sparkle.

Top Tip: If you love how you’ve accessorised, take a photo so that next year you can recreate your table.

5. The Lightest Touch of Christmas Dining Table Decoration Ideas

Lighting is essential to making your room sparkle! You might have a “big light”, but how about using table lights to create more atmosphere, or using candles or tea-lights (real or battery-operated) in gold holders for a touch of style.

Top Tip: If you’re using candles, please be careful! Don’t use any Christmas dining table decoration ideas that could fall into the flame and cause a fire. Be sensible.

What Next?

Did you know that winter is a great time to sell property in Birmingham? People browse properties online often on their gifted smartphones and tablets at Christmas if they are thinking about a potential move early in the New Year.

I’ve been helping people prepare their homes for sale for some time now, so I know what works best, not just when it comes to Christmas dining table decoration ideas! I can help you sell your Birmingham home this winter.

If you’re thinking of selling, call Dean Coleman Estates Limited on 07581 875215 for an informal chat or to book a valuation and see how I can help get you moving next year.

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Thinking of selling your property in Birmingham and wondering ‘how to value my house’? Your first port of call is likely to be an estate agent in Birmingham to help you determine the value of your home. But do you ever wonder what’s going on behind the scenes during that all-important valuation appointment? Let’s unravel the mystery and look at what estate agents are really looking for when they’re calculating your Birmingham property’s worth.

‘How to Value My House in Birmingham ‘ First Steps

Before we get into the valuation process, let’s talk about how you can get a rough valuation figure. As your local estate agents in Birmingham , we offer instant online valuations, giving you an estimate based on factors like property type, postcode, and the number of bedrooms. But, for a clear-cut understanding of what your property could fetch in the Birmingham market, we recommend an in-person valuation.

What Does It Cost to Know My Home’s Worth?

Dean Coleman Powered by eXp offers free valuations, so if you’re wondering ‘how to value my house’, it won’t cost you a penny!

Property Valuation in Birmingham

So, how do estate agents value a property, especially in a competitive market? It’s not just about location or square footage; we will look at a multitude of factors that can make or break your property’s market appeal.

The Key Factors:

First Impressions: Kerb appeal matters everywhere, but in Birmingham , it’s crucial. Spruce up your exterior to make your home stand out.

Condition Matters: A home in pristine condition could earn you top pound, especially in a demanding market.

The Power of the Postcode: In Birmingham , the right postcode can add significant value to your property. Proximity to good transport links and top schools is a big plus.

Trending Property Types: Whether it’s a Victorian townhouse or a modern flat, certain styles may be more in demand depending on ever-changing market trends.

Functional Layouts: In an area where space is at a premium, a well-designed layout can hike up your property’s value.

Comparing Apples to Apples: How do estate agents value a property in Birmingham ? By comparing it to similar, recently sold properties in your area! Knowledge of the local market is key.

Room for Growth: If you’ve secured planning permission for extensions or renovations, you’re already ahead of the game. Birmingham estate agents will factor this into the valuation.

Quick Property Valuation Prep Tips

• Consider Decluttering: Remember that less is more and every square foot counts.
• Garden Grooming: If outdoor space is at a premium, making sure your garden or balcony is in tip-top shape can add significant appeal.
• Documentation is King: Having all your paperwork in order can make the valuation process smoother.
• Stage Your Home: Staging your home to look its best can give you an edge. Consider simple additions like fresh flowers or setting the dining table.
• Fix Minor Repairs: Small things like a leaky tap or squeaky door can be off-putting. Take care of these little issues to present your home in the best possible light.
• Keep it Neutral: A neutral colour scheme can make your home more appealing. Consider a fresh coat of paint in neutral tones to brighten up the space.
• Highlight Unique Features: If your property has any unique or luxurious features make sure they are clean, accessible, and well-lit during the valuation.
• Check Security Features: Make sure all security systems are functional. A well-secured home can add to its market value.

Adding these prep tips into your strategy could make a world of difference in how your property is valued.

In Conclusion

When wondering ‘how to value my house’, understanding the whole valuation process is invaluable. Prep your property wisely, and when it’s time to make your next move, you’ll do so with the confidence that you’ve got the best possible valuation.

Do you have questions about how estate agents in Birmingham carry out valuations? Fire away, I’m ready to help you achieve the best possible price for your home. Call me on 07581 875215 or email me at dean.coleman@exp.uk.com.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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:

1. Geographical Proximity: The areas closest to the school are often prioritised, particularly if there is a dense population.
2. Presence of Siblings: Children who already have siblings that attend the school may be given precedence, regardless of their exact location.
3. 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:

1. Straight-line Distance: A straightforward distance calculation between the address points of your home and the school.
2. Walking Route: The shortest, safest route involving footpaths and necessary roads.
3. 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.

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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.

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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.