🏡 Why Choosing an Independent Estate Agent Like Open House Staffordshire Works in Your Best Interest

Penzance Way, Stafford

The recent BBC Panorama investigation has sent shockwaves through the property industry, exposing questionable practices by some of the UK’s largest estate agency chains. From conditional selling to pushing in-house services, it’s clearer than ever that not every agent is truly working for their client.

At Open House Estate Agents Staffordshire, we’re proud to be different.

✅ We Work for You, Not a Head Office

Unlike many high street chains, we’re not tied to corporate targets or bonus-driven quotas. There’s no pressure to cross-sell mortgage services, force buyers to use in-house solicitors, or rush price reductions just to hit monthly figures.

Our sole focus is achieving the best result for you – the seller.

🧍‍♂️ Deal with the Business Owner, Not a Junior Negotiator

When you choose Open House Staffordshire, you deal directly with me, Steve, the business owner. I take personal responsibility for every step of your journey – from valuation and marketing to negotiation and completion.

You’re not passed between departments. You’re not “just another instruction.”

You’re a client I’m personally invested in.

🔍 Transparent, Honest Advice – Every Time

As an independent agent, my reputation means everything. That’s why I:

Provide evidence-based valuations – not inflated figures to win your instruction Pass on every offer – no cherry-picking Give honest, constructive feedback after every viewing Never tie you into long contracts without good reason

Your trust isn’t something I take for granted.

📸 Marketing That Works – Not Just Boxes Ticked

While some corporate agents offer templated listings and upsell “premium marketing” at extra cost, I include everything as standard:

Professional photography Floorplans 360 virtual tours Eye-catching social media posts National exposure on Rightmove, Zoopla & PrimeLocation

And I’ll regularly review performance with you – not just list and forget.

💬 A Personal, Responsive Service

Because I only take on a manageable number of properties at once, you get faster response times, more attention to detail, and a much more proactive approach.

And when you call, text, or email, you’re speaking to me – not a call centre or someone who’s never seen your home.

🏠 The Bottom Line

The Panorama programme was a wake-up call for many. But if you want:

A truly personal service Clear, honest advice Someone who works for you – not a faceless company…

Then let’s talk.

At Open House Estate Agents Staffordshire, your sale matters to me. Because this isn’t just a job – it’s my business and my reputation.

📞 Call Steve on 01785 256100 or email steve.lythgoe@localagent.co.uk to book your free valuation – and discover what selling your home should feel like.

UK Housing Market Update – May 2025

Charterhouse Avenue, Stafford £440,000 oiro

Record Property Listings Signal a Buyer’s Market

The UK housing market is seeing a major shift as we move through 2025, with new data revealing a surge in available homes. According to Rightmove, the number of properties coming to market has reached a 10-year high, giving rise to a true buyer’s market.

At Open House Estate Agents Staffordshire, we’re here to help both buyers and sellers make the most of these changing market conditions.

More Homes, More Choice

Rightmove has reported a 14% increase in new listings compared to this time last year – the highest volume of homes for sale in over a decade. This means more choice for buyers, greater negotiating power, and a higher chance of finding that dream property in areas like Stafford, Cannock, Stone, Hednesford, and Rugeley.

Prices Still Rising, But Slowly

Despite the rise in supply, asking prices continue to grow, albeit modestly. In May, the average asking price across Great Britain rose by 0.6% to £379,517 – a record high, though the slowest May increase since 2016. The higher volume of homes on the market is helping to keep price inflation in check, especially in more competitive local areas.

Why It’s a Great Time to Buy

With mortgage rates easing and sellers having to price more realistically to compete, it’s a good time for buyers to act. Whether you’re a first-time buyer, upsizing, or downsizing, there are great opportunities to secure better value than in previous years.

How Open House Staffordshire Can Help

At Open House Estate Agents Staffordshire, we provide a personal, one-to-one service with a local expert – you’ll always deal directly with Steve, not a call centre or faceless team. Here’s how we can help in today’s market:

Buyers: We offer tailored property alerts, flexible viewing options, and expert advice to help you navigate a fast-changing market. Sellers: We help you price competitively with a detailed market appraisal, including recent comparables and demand trends. Our marketing includes professional photos, floorplans, 3D tours, and promotion on Rightmove, Zoopla, and social media.

With the market favouring buyers, it’s more important than ever for sellers to stand out. Our 90% success rate (compared to just 50% for some local agents) proves that the right pricing and marketing strategy makes all the difference.

Book Your Free Valuation or Consultation Today

Whether you’re buying or selling, now is the time to act. Contact Steve at Open House Staffordshire for honest advice, expert market insight, and unbeatable service.

Phone: 01785 256100 Email: steve.lythgoe@localagent.co.uk Website: www.openhousestaffordshire.co.uk

Follow us on social media for more local property insights and listings in your area.

#StaffordshireProperty #CannockHomes #UKHousingMarket #OpenHouseStaffordshire #BuyersMarket2025

Steve Lythgoe