Thousands of St George’s flags have appeared in Birmingham and across the country in the last weeks – but one expert says they could diminish a property’s market price
Flying an England flag outside your home could diminish your property’s value, according to an expert.
Thousands of St George’s flags have appeared in cities, towns and villages across the country over the last month.
However, one expert says residents might be surprised to learn that flying one outside their homes could negatively affect their property’s market price.
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Jack Malnick, managing director of property website Sell House Fast, said flying the nation’s flag when trying to sell a home “could alter buyer perceptions” and “therefore affect viewing bookings”.
He said it could then “impact offers and the overall speed of the sale”.
And if a property remains on the market too long, homeowners will inevitably be advised to drop their price.
“There is no statistical proof showing that property prices have dropped due to St George’s flags being flown,” said Mr Malnick.
“However, some estate agents and property experts may advise sellers against displaying, due to negative associations some demographics have with the flag.
“Though equally depending on the area it may have the opposite effect.
“For the sake of selling your property, presenting your home as a space that any buyer can imagine themselves in, is your best bet and the easiest way to do this is to remove a certain amount of personalisation.”
For those concerned if their neighbours’ flags could affect a property sale, Mr Malnick said homeowners should “focus on strengthening” their own appeal.
“Focus on strengthening your own property’s appeal,” he said.
“Make sure your home looks and feels as welcoming as possible with clean and tidy outdoor spaces.
“Make sure the garden is looking well-kept. Perhaps the fence needs a lick of paint? This kind of detail will draw attention away from the flag next door.
“Ultimately a buyer needs to know the kind of area they are moving into and who their neighbours are so it will either work for them or it won’t and you are better off knowing that sooner rather than later.”
