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Celebrating Excellence in Estate Agency and Lettings in Barnstaple
We’re thrilled to share that Collyers Estate Agents has won both the Estate Agent and Letting Agent Gold Awards for Barnstaple at this year’s British Property Awards — following our Lettings Gold Award win last year.
As an independent local agency, we couldn’t be prouder of this achievement — or of the dedicated team behind it.
🌟 A True Measure of Service – Not Size
The British Property Awards were created to help customers find the very best estate and letting agents in their local area — not just the biggest names or flashiest brands.
Their judging process is one of the most comprehensive in the industry, involving:
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In-depth mystery shopping across hundreds of agents nationwide
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Analysis of data such as sales success rates, time to sell, and fall-through percentages
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A detailed review of each agent’s online presence, photography, descriptions, and marketing
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A final shortlist and further mystery shop before deciding the winner
This means the award isn’t about who shouts the loudest — it’s about consistent, high-quality service, communication, and results.
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As letting agents, we often see more than just the bricks and mortar side of property management.
Behind every tenancy is a person – sometimes a person going through a really tough time.
Recently, we’ve been reminded just how important it is to approach those situations with care, patience, and professionalism. Two of our tenants have reached out to us while struggling with their mental health – and it’s made us reflect on what our role really is when tenants need support.
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With the Chancellor set to deliver the Autumn Budget at the end of November, all eyes are on what it could mean for the UK housing market — and for local homeowners, buyers, and landlords here in North Devon.
From potential stamp duty changes to property tax adjustments, rumours are swirling, and speculation is high. So, what might be coming — and how could it affect you?
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For decades, it’s been seen as a simple truth: “Buying is always better than renting.”
But in 2025, with mortgage rates higher than they’ve been in over a decade, that old saying isn’t quite as straightforward as it used to be.
So – what’s actually cheaper right now: buying or renting?
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We all love to hear that our home has gone up in value. But here’s the uncomfortable truth: just because your home is worth more, doesn’t mean you’ve made a profit.
At Collyers Estate Agents, we regularly speak to homeowners who’ve owned their property for 10, 15, even 20 years. And while their homes may have risen in value, so too have the costs of maintaining them.
So let’s dig into the real numbers – and ask the question: are you better off, or just breaking even?
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Ever spotted a property online, fallen in love with it… and quietly waited to “see what happens”?
You’re not alone – but here’s why that could be a costly mistake.
We recently had a property on the market for around eight weeks. It had steady interest but no offers, and the seller decided to part exchange it – so we removed it from sale.
The very next day, a hopeful buyer got in touch to ask why it was no longer available.
She told us she’d listed her own home specifically so she could buy that property.
The problem?
She’d never let us know.
No call. No viewing. No email to register her interest.
The seller – understandably – had no idea there was a serious buyer lining up behind the scenes.
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📉 Is it just you – or is everything taking longer to sell?
đź’¬ Are buyers more cautious?
🤔 And what’s actually causing the slowdown?
In this blog, we break down the current state of the UK property market and what it means for sellers, buyers, and landlords – particularly here in North Devon.
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It’s a scenario we see more often than you might think…
You’ve found your dream home. The agent showing you around seems friendly. Then you think:
“Maybe we should just sell through them too – it might help the chain.”
At first glance, it seems logical – maybe even convenient. But is choosing your estate agent based solely on who’s selling your next home actually the right move?
Here’s what to consider before you make that call.
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đź’Ľ What Does an Estate Agent Actually Do for Their Fee?
In a world of online-only agents, budget fees, and DIY selling platforms, it’s fair to ask:
What does a traditional estate agent actually do – and is it worth the money?
At Collyers, we believe in being transparent about what you’re paying for – and why it matters. Here’s a breakdown of what a good agent really does behind the scenes (and on the frontlines) to earn their fee.
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🌅 1. North Devon Offers a Unique Lifestyle
From surfing at Saunton Sands to moorland walks on Exmoor, life here moves at a different pace – and that’s exactly the appeal. Whether you’re into outdoor adventure, quiet countryside living, or community-led towns, there’s something here for everyone.
