Flintshire housing market defying national trends as sales surge in June says Keystone’s Ben Roberts

The property market in Flintshire has seen a surge in sales in June 2023, according to the latest update from Ben Roberts, Managing Director of Connah’s Quay-based Keystone Property and Mortgage Centre.

This surge defies the national trends in the UK, which have largely been marred by economic uncertainty.

“The Flintshire property market has seen an increase in sales for the month of June 2023,” says Ben.

“Despite a broader economic climate that paints a picture of ‘doom and gloom’, property sales in Flintshire have defied national trends, with 160 sales compared to the 130 recorded in the same month last year.”

A unique local micro-market and a strong local industry have been credited with this unexpected behaviour.

Additionally, the number of new properties listed in the market has also grown from last year’s 162 to 190.

However, the market has faced challenges. While Nationwide BS, one of the UK’s largest mortgage lenders, reports house prices as broadly stable with a 0.1% increase in June, Flintshire has seen a decrease in property prices, especially in traditionally sought-after areas such as Hawarden and Flint Mountain.

Significantly, the number of price reductions has surged from 43 in June 2022 to 110 in June 2023, reflecting the need for price adjustments in a shifting market.

“Despite the higher interest rates available to savers, the sharp rise in rents, together with continued high rates of inflation more generally, is continuing to make it difficult for many prospective buyers to save for a deposit,” said Robert Gardener, Chief Economist at Nationwide BS. The building society predicts a potential market cooldown due to rising borrowing costs.

Despite these challenges, Ben’s message remains positive, citing the market’s “surprising resilience and an ability to adapt to fluctuating conditions.”

He emphasises the importance of realism in setting prices and proactive efforts in marketing properties, especially in the current climate.

Ben says: “Vendors can no longer get away with just putting the house on Rightmove with a poor agent and hope it sells itself….this market needs a proactive agent,” says Ben.

“We embrace digital media and technology to ensure our vendors’ homes are put in front of the right eyes which will lead to a successful sale.”

He said: “Keystone has seen rapid growth over the years and is now one of the biggest selling agents in Flintshire.”

“This success is attributed to the company’s ability to adapt and innovate, particularly during challenging market conditions.”

Keystone is a family-run, full-service estate agency based in Connah’s Quay.

Founded by Ben and his father Paul in 2007, the company has grown into a leading agency in Flintshire.

Over the years, they have navigated through various market conditions and have sold over £175m worth of homes.