Time for a cuppa? 5 Minutes with Daniel Northwood

Daniel Northwood is a Branch Manager based at our Shenfield office.

We spoke with Dan to learn more about his role, current property trends, and his advice for investors considering buying a property in Shenfield.

I’m the Branch Manager for our Shenfield office, and I’ve been with Beresfords for six years. My role is very varied and hands-on. I look after the branch and the team, focusing on nurturing, training and developing individuals so they can progress in their careers. Alongside managing the office, I’m actively involved in carrying out valuations and viewings, negotiating offers and progressing sales through to completion to ensure our clients have the best possible experience.

I’ve always had a genuine love for property and sales, and estate agency gives me the opportunity to combine both while helping people through some of the most pivotal moments in their lives.

Whether someone is buying their first home, upsizing or making a fresh start, it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of that journey. I’m also very motivated by the financial rewards that come from working hard and achieving results.

One of the most valuable pieces of advice I received early on in my career came from our Managing Director, Alex Beresford: “Knowledge is power.” When I first started out, I was young and conscious that people can sometimes have preconceived opinions.

I quickly learned that having strong knowledge of locations, facts and figures, property and people builds confidence and credibility. That knowledge has been key to my personal growth and success, and I still live by it today.

My favourite part of the role is looking after an amazing team and seeing them grow and progress. I also really enjoy helping people find their dream home and being involved from start to finish. Valuing property is another highlight for me, seeing a home go from initial marketing right through to handing over the keys is always incredibly rewarding.

My advice would be to enter the industry with an open mind and a genuine desire to learn. Good communication skills, a strong work ethic, commitment to the role, and drive and motivation are essential. Estate agency can be challenging, but it’s also very rewarding for those who are prepared to put the work in.

The market in Shenfield is very positive at the moment and remains strong. It’s a premium, highly desirable location, largely due to its excellent transport links, local amenities, well-regarded schools, and access to green spaces. Properties are selling well, and demand remains strong across the area.

I’m seeing a number of landlords selling their buy-to-let properties as they review their market position, particularly in response to government changes and the new Renters’ Rights Act.

Buyers are generally being more cautious and savvy with their decisions, taking time to ensure a property is the right fit. With rising building costs, many buyers are leaning towards homes that are already finished, and it’s encouraging to see first-time buyer registrations returning to the market and increasing.

Old Shenfield remains very popular for its character and charm, with some stunning homes ideally positioned close to both Shenfield and Brentwood high streets, as well as excellent schools. Shenfield Park is another sought-after area, offering larger homes within walking distance of the high street and good value for money. Finally, Shenfield Place is a quiet, residential hidden gem that benefits from its proximity to both Brentwood and Shenfield town centres.

One common misconception from sellers is that ‘For Sale’ boards aren’t necessary in today’s digital world. In reality, boards act like 24/7 salespeople, and many buyers still drive around their desired areas looking for properties. According to The Negotiator, some agents suggest that up to 30% of enquiries can originate from boards.

On the buying side, some people believe the cheapest conveyancer is always the best option. When you’re making such a significant investment, it’s important to remember that you often get what you pay for. Investing properly in legal due diligence can help protect you in the long run.

I’d always advise first-time buyers to start by getting a clear idea of their budget and speaking to a financial adviser, such as Flagstone. From there, it’s important to get out and view properties to understand what’s available. Creating a pros and cons list can really help, and being honest in your feedback allows your estate agent to support you and tailor their advice to your needs.

I always suggest preparing your home as if you were getting ready to host a dinner party, tidy, declutter and clean to make the best first impression. Trusting your agent is also crucial; selling a home is a big financial decision, so it’s important to work with someone you connect with.

If you’re thinking of selling, please get in touch with our Shenfield branch to start your property journey with Beresfords today.