5 Minutes with Daniel Buck

Daniel Buck is the branch manager at Beresfords in Colchester. He loves his job and is a valuable expert when it comes to the local property market.

We asked him a few questions about his job and whether he’s got any tips for people moving in the area… or even aspiring estate agents.

As branch manager, my role is all about keeping the cogs turning smoothly. I oversee the day-to-day operations of our sales team, ensuring everyone stays motivated and inspired to hit their goals (morning meetings with the team are key to this!). Alongside Richard King, I also handle valuations – one of the most exciting parts of the job.

From securing new listings to managing incoming offers, coordinating viewings, and driving sales progression, I keep an eye on every aspect of the process. It’s very much a team effort, but I’m here to ensure everything runs like clockwork. Think of me as the conductor of our little symphony – making sure every note hits just right!

From a young age, I was fascinated by the idea of homeownership and wanted to understand how the process worked. That curiosity sparked my interest in an estate agency, and it quickly turned into a career. In fact, within just six months of starting in the industry, I achieved my dream of buying my first house. It’s such a rewarding feeling to help others navigate the same journey, turning their dreams of owning a home into reality. That’s what keeps me passionate about what I do!

The best advice I’ve ever received is simple but powerful: Do the basics really well. It’s easy to get caught up in chasing big wins, but success often comes from consistently nailing the fundamentals – whether it’s following up with clients, being prepared, or delivering on promises. Mastering the basics creates a strong foundation for everything else to fall into place. It’s advice I live by every day!

Without a doubt, my favourite part of the job is valuing. It’s such a privilege to meet so many wonderful people and step into their homes, each one with its own unique story. No two properties are the same, and I’m always honoured to be trusted with helping homeowners take that next step in their journey. It’s not just about the numbers – it’s about the connections and the individuality of every home I visit. That’s what makes it so special!

Don’t do it?! (Just kidding!) Honestly, it’s a career I’ve always loved, and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone who’s passionate about people and property.

What makes estate agency so exciting is that no two days are ever the same. Every person you meet, every home you visit – it’s all unique. It’s an industry that constantly keeps you on your toes, with fresh challenges to tackle, which help you grow both personally and professionally. And the best part? The opportunities for progression are huge. If you’re willing to put in the work, it can be an incredibly rewarding career!

The market has had its challenges, but we’re definitely seeing improvements. Colchester is much larger than many people expect, with new developments popping up all the time, which keeps things vibrant. Its location is a huge advantage – it’s only 45 minutes to London Liverpool Street on the fast train, making it incredibly attractive, especially when you compare property prices here to those closer to London.

What’s been really exciting is the resurgence of first-time buyers in the area. They’re breathing new life into the market, creating a positive ripple effect across the board. It’s a great time to be part of the property scene in Colchester!

Lately, we’ve noticed a real shift in buyer priorities. Many buyers are looking for properties that offer more space, both indoors and outdoors, as hybrid working has become the norm for so many. Homes with dedicated office spaces or larger gardens are definitely in higher demand.

We’re also seeing buyers become more price-conscious, given the current economic climate. They’re looking for properties that offer long-term value, whether that’s energy-efficient features, potential for future upgrades, or proximity to key amenities.

Another trend that stands out is the increasing confidence among first-time buyers, which is great to see. They’re taking advantage of opportunities in the market, and that’s creating momentum across all levels of the property chain.

Absolutely! In Colchester, areas with good transport links, like those near the mainline train stations, are always in demand – especially from commuters looking for that perfect balance between affordability and accessibility to London. These areas are particularly popular at the moment:

Location: Located to the north of Colchester, Mile End (often referred to as Myland) is a popular and well-established area.

Key Features:
- Known for its mix of traditional and modern housing, making it appealing to families, professionals, and retirees alike.
- Close proximity to Colchester North Station, making it a highly desirable location for commuters to London and other cities.
- The area benefits from good schools, local shops, and access to the A12: a major road linking Colchester to Ipswich and London.

Community: Offers a suburban feel with a blend of quiet residential streets and nearby amenities such as Turner Rise Retail Park.

Location: Northeast of the town centre and slightly further from Colchester North Station compared to Mile End.

Key Features:
- Known for the High Woods Country Park, a large green space perfect for walking, cycling, and family outings.
- Modern housing developments with affordable homes, making it popular with young families and first-time buyers.
- Close to Colchester General Hospital and local schools, adding convenience for families and healthcare workers.

Community: Offers a balance of nature and urban convenience, with supermarkets and retail parks nearby.

Location: East of Colchester, just off Harwich Road and within easy reach of the town centre.

Key Features:
- A quieter, primarily residential area with a mix of post-war and newer properties.
- Affordable housing options compared to areas closer to the station or town centre.
- Nearby green spaces and local amenities like shops, schools, and bus routes connecting to the rest of Colchester.

Community: Known for its community spirit, with a family-friendly atmosphere and a laid-back, suburban feel.

We’re also seeing a lot of interest in newer developments on the outskirts of the town. These often offer modern, energy-efficient homes with great amenities, which appeal to families and young professionals alike.

As for property types, homes with versatile spaces – like extra bedrooms that can double as offices or properties with open-plan layouts - are becoming increasingly popular. Buyers are prioritising flexibility in how they can use their space, which reflects how lifestyles are evolving.

One of the most common misconceptions is that the process will be quick and straightforward. While we always aim to make things as smooth as possible, the reality is that buying or selling a home involves a lot of moving parts – surveys, legal checks, negotiations, and chains can all take time. People are often surprised that it takes an average of 25 weeks to sell a home in the UK, and it can take even longer.

Another misconception is that the highest offer is always the best one. Many sellers don’t realise that a lower offer from a chain-free buyer or someone with financing already in place might be more reliable than a higher offer with more conditions attached.

For buyers, a common myth is that they should wait for the "perfect" property. The truth is, homes can be adapted and improved over time – it’s often more about finding a property with potential in the right location.

Clearing up these misunderstandings is a big part of what we do, ensuring our clients feel confident and informed throughout the process.

First off, do your research! Colchester is a great place to buy, but like any area, each neighbourhood has its own vibe and potential. It’s important to think about things like commute times, local amenities, and future development plans.

Set a realistic budget – beyond just the property price, consider additional costs like stamp duty, legal fees, and moving expenses. And don’t forget to factor in ongoing costs, such as utilities and council tax.

Also, be patient and flexible. The perfect first home might not be exactly what you envision, but if it ticks the key boxes – location, space, and potential – it’s worth considering.

Finally, get advice from professionals like Flagstone, our financial arm of the business, who can offer mortgage and financial advice, as well as a good local solicitor which we can also recommend. The process can seem overwhelming, but having a solid support team in place makes it much easier to navigate.

Preparing to sell your home in Colchester can feel like a big task, but breaking it down into steps makes it much more manageable. Here are the key things to keep in mind:

Preparing well can make all the difference in selling your home quickly and for the right price!

Thanks so much to Daniel for answering all our questions! If you’re planning a move in Colchester, we’re here to help. As you can tell, we love what we do and are passionate about helping people navigate the world of property transactions. Contact us today to see how we can help with your property journey.