5 minutes with James Westbrook

James Westbrook is the Director of Office Residential Sales at Beresfords in Chelmsford. He leads a dedicated team of professionals who are passionate about helping people buy and sell in the area.
 
We asked him a few questions about his job and if he could give us the inside scoop on the current Chelmsford property market.

I am an estate agent specialising in residential properties in Chelmsford. My role involves guiding clients through the buying and selling processes, from valuation to finalising transactions. I also manage a team, ensuring we work collaboratively to deliver excellent customer service and achieve our targets. In addition to managing property listings, conducting viewings, and negotiating deals, I oversee the team’s performance and provide training to maintain high standards.

The combination of working with people and the dynamic nature of the property market inspired me. I’ve always enjoyed problem-solving and matching clients with their ideal homes. The opportunity to have a tangible impact on people’s lives by helping them achieve their housing goals was a big motivator.

Focus on building relationships, not just transactions. Estate agency is about trust and understanding clients’ needs. Long-term success comes from prioritising relationships and ensuring clients feel heard and supported.

Meeting a wide variety of people and helping them navigate one of the most significant financial decisions in their lives is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, seeing the joy on clients' faces when they find their dream home or successfully sell their property makes the effort worthwhile.

Be prepared to learn continuously and stay adaptable. The property market is ever-changing, so keeping up with local trends, regulations, and technology is vital. Strong communication and negotiation skills are a must, as is a passion for delivering exceptional customer service.

Chelmsford’s property market is vibrant, with steady demand due to its excellent schools, commuter links to London, and quality of life. While fluctuations in interest rates have created some caution among buyers, the area remains a sought-after location for families and professionals alike.

Buyers are increasingly prioritising energy efficiency, with homes featuring modern insulation, solar panels, or energy-saving upgrades gaining more interest. There’s also a growing demand for properties with home offices or outdoor spaces, reflecting changes in work and lifestyle preferences post-pandemic.

Areas like Springfield and Great Baddow are particularly popular, thanks to their excellent schools and family-friendly environments. The city centre continues to attract younger professionals due to its proximity to Chelmsford Station and amenities. Beaulieu Park is another area drawing attention for its modern developments and community feel.

Many clients underestimate the time it takes to complete a transaction. From the initial offer to finalising contracts, there are several steps, including mortgage approvals, surveys, and conveyancing. Another misconception is that minor cosmetic flaws will drastically impact a property’s value; often, buyers focus on the potential of the space.

Understand your budget: Get pre-approved for a mortgage to know your purchasing power.
Research the area: Visit neighbourhoods at different times of the day to get a true sense of the environment.
Be prepared to act quickly: Properties for sale in Chelmsford can move fast, so being ready to make an offer is crucial.
Work with a trusted agent: Having an expert on your side can make the process smoother and less stressful.

Declutter and depersonalise: Create a blank canvas for potential buyers to envision themselves in the space.
Stage your home: Small touches like fresh flowers or neutral décor can make a big difference.
Address repairs: Fix minor issues such as squeaky doors or chipped paint to give a polished impression.
Work with a professional: Partnering with an experienced agent ensures accurate pricing and effective marketing.
Optimise curb appeal: First impressions matter, so invest in tidying the garden and cleaning the exterior.

Thanks so much to James for answering our questions! If you’re thinking of buying, selling, renting or letting in Chelmsford, we’re here to help. We love being part of our clients’ property journeys and would be delighted to hear from you. Please contact James and the team or pop into the Chelmsford branch when you’re next in town.