The West Country is Stags Country Stags is the leading estate agent for Cornwall, Devon, Somerset and Dorset.

No-one likes uncertainty, least of all the markets, property included. So to what extent have the perceived failings of the political establishment and the country’s “rebellion” against the European Union impacted on the South West property market? And what does the future hold as we progress into an ever-shifting “Brexit” landscape?

The answer is, in truth, far simpler than the above would initially have us imagine.

Enjoy an evening of Music by the Lake on Saturday 1st July at Combe Raleigh, Corryhill, near Honiton, Held in aid of local charity, TRIP Community Transport Association.

The Rural Payments online system opened for BPS applications on 1^st March 2017. This was earlier than expected, and bodes well for a more timely approach by the RPA to 2017 BPS applications.

2015 saw a steady increase in market share of Stags’ core properties. A shortage of available property in the West Country, as well as the rest of the UK, coupled with a steady increase in population, has resulted in a modest price increase of 2% over the course of the year.

Equestrian properties in the South West continue to attract buyers seeking space, serenity, and a lifestyle closely tied to the countryside. This region, known for its rolling landscapes, coastlines, and strong rural heritage, remains one of the UK’s most desirable areas for horse owners and equestrian enthusiasts.

As part of our 150th anniversary, Stags committed to raising £50,000 for four, local, cancer charities that make a real difference in the lives of those affected by cancer throughout the South West. Thanks to the tremendous efforts of our teams across all 22 offices, we are proud to say we exceeded this target, raising an amazing £72,200!

As part of our 150th anniversary, Stags committed to raising £50,000 for four, local, cancer charities that make a real difference in the lives of those affected by cancer throughout the South West. Thanks to the tremendous efforts of our teams across all 22 offices, we are proud to say we exceeded this target, raising an amazing £72,200!

Jessica Attrill, Architectural Technician in the Planning and Design team, looks at co-living, the benefits of properties that allow multigenerational living, and how this lifestyle can help rural communities and farming families.Co-living can be commonly associated with urban areas, but are also significant in rural communities, where housing affordability, social isolation, and limited access to services can present unique challenges.

As part of our 150th anniversary, Stags committed to raising £50,000 for four, local, cancer charities that make a real difference in the lives of those affected by cancer throughout the South West. Thanks to the tremendous efforts of our teams across all 22 offices, we are proud to say we exceeded this target, raising an amazing £72,200!

Jessica Attrill, Architectural Technician in the Planning and Design team, looks at co-living, the benefits of properties that allow multigenerational living, and how this lifestyle can help rural communities and farming families.Co-living can be commonly associated with urban areas, but are also significant in rural communities, where housing affordability, social isolation, and limited access to services can present unique challenges.

Ben Luxton, development land specialist, highlights 'call for sites' in the West Country, being Dorset, Somerset and North Devon & Torridge.
A ‘call for sites’ is a request from a Local Planning Authority that invites landowners and developers to lodge details of any sites which they believe may be suitable for future development.

Sally Blowey BSc (Hons) MRICS FAAV, associate, chartered surveyor and RICS registered valuer, from our Launceston office, has a look at the recent updates from DEFRA about future grant schemes, following on from the autumn budget. 

Stags continues to expand its Development Land and New Homes departments through the recruitment of Ben Luxton, a development land specialist, and transfer of Callum Jones from the Stags Truro office, to support the growing demand for new homes sales.

Sally Blowey BSc (Hons) MRICS FAAV, associate, chartered surveyor and RICS registered valuer, from our Launceston office, has a look at the recent updates from DEFRA about future grant schemes, following on from the autumn budget. 

Stags lettings department are frequently approached by landlords asking how easy it is to switch their current managing or letting agent.

Polly Jasper, looks at some key points for tenants to remember when spending time in their garden.

Andrew Ranson MRICS FAAV, discusses the growing interest in woodlands and highlights recent sales.

Robin Fern MSc MRICS, discusses why auctions are a popular and effective way to sell properties, especially renovation prospects.

Jessica Attrill BA (Hons) Assoc CIAT, architectural technician from our Exeter office, looks at key points to consider when converting an outbuilding to create downsized housing.
Converting a pre-existing structure can provide the opportunity for multi-generational living, at cost-effective, versatile and sustainable means, while offering a simplified lifestyle and financial freedom, with the chance to be creative at the same time.

Stags turns 150 this year and it stands to reason that we would not be where we are without our wonderful and hard-working teams. With more than 180 employees based all over the West Country, each one an expert in their field, we are proud to be able to deliver our clients an excellent service across the board.

Stags turns 150 this year and it stands to reason that we would not be where we are without our wonderful and hard-working teams. With more than 180 employees based all over the West Country, each one an expert in their field, we are proud to be able to deliver our clients an excellent service across the board.

Now, more than ever, landlords are being urged to seek guidance from professional agents when letting a property.

With an estimated 168 rules and regulations which apply to the Private Rented Sector, you may not be surprised to know that more and more landlords are instructing an agent to assist them, not only in finding a suitable tenant, but also in the day-to-day management of the tenancy once occupied.

Now, more than ever, landlords are being urged to seek guidance from professional agents when letting a property.

With an estimated 168 rules and regulations which apply to the Private Rented Sector, you may not be surprised to know that more and more landlords are instructing an agent to assist them, not only in finding a suitable tenant, but also in the day-to-day management of the tenancy once occupied.

Claire Pile MARLA, Associate Partner, and our Lettings Training and Development Manager, gives an overview of the current market for lettings properties. 
In the blink of an eye we find ourselves into the spring months and with the hope of drier weather on the horizon, we are pleased to report on what continues to be a positive marketplace.

Now, more than ever, landlords are being urged to seek guidance from professional agents when letting a property.

With an estimated 168 rules and regulations which apply to the Private Rented Sector, you may not be surprised to know that more and more landlords are instructing an agent to assist them, not only in finding a suitable tenant, but also in the day-to-day management of the tenancy once occupied.

Known for its unique and stunning landscapes, it's not surprising that Exmoor is arguably one of the most desirable places for equine property in the southwest.

The Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) grant scheme is targeted specifically towards farmers and land managers within England’s National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs). 

Charlotte Turner, of our Totnes Professional Services team, discusses key points of the grant.

The FiPL programme aims to provide funding for one-off projects which fulfil at least one of the programme’s four key principles.

Stags were proud auction sponsors of the West Country Farming and Machinery Show 2024, which saw an impressive attendance throughout the day. 

Alongside the show, Stags held a machinery auction which consisted of nearly 100 lots.

The Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) grant scheme is targeted specifically towards farmers and land managers within England’s National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs). 

Charlotte Turner, of our Totnes Professional Services team, discusses key points of the grant.

The FiPL programme aims to provide funding for one-off projects which fulfil at least one of the programme’s four key principles.

The Landlord Gas Safety Certificate is just one of many critical documents required to be provided to a tenant both at the start and during the tenancy, it is imperative that you get it right.

A recent case has again highlighted a commonly forgotten and misunderstood piece of legislation regarding the Landlords Gas Safety Certificate, which could pose a threat to a landlord regaining possession of their property.

Stags Farm Agency have shown that auctions remain the key to selling popular land parcels. 

The team sold 60 land and agricultural property lots last year with demand experienced from a diverse range of buyers.

The Farming in Protected Landscapes (FiPL) grant scheme is targeted specifically towards farmers and land managers within England’s National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs). 

Charlotte Turner, of our Totnes Professional Services team, discusses key points of the grant.

The FiPL programme aims to provide funding for one-off projects which fulfil at least one of the programme’s four key principles.

Stags were proud auction sponsors of the West Country Farming and Machinery Show 2024, which saw an impressive attendance throughout the day. 

Alongside the show, Stags held a machinery auction which consisted of nearly 100 lots.

With Christmas celebrations already feeling a distant memory, and as we hurtle towards the end of January, Claire Pile MARLA, Associate Partner reports on a positive start to the New Year.

Although there are signs of improving confidence in the sales market, some homeowners continue to look at alternatives, with letting providing a good short to medium term option. 

Guy Wilson MRICS FAAV, Head of Wellington Professional Services and RICS Registered Valuer, discusses Capital Grants and how they may be a viable alternative for those looking to raise finance for capital projects.

Standalone Capital Grants under the umbrella of Countryside Stewardship are just one example and are particularly useful where landowners seek funding for capital projects.

Guy Wilson MRICS FAAV, Head of Wellington Professional Services and RICS Registered Valuer, discusses Capital Grants and how they may be a viable alternative for those looking to raise finance for capital projects.

Standalone Capital Grants under the umbrella of Countryside Stewardship are just one example and are particularly useful where landowners seek funding for capital projects.

Stags reports a stronger year for grass keep sales in 2022, with keen demand evident across the South West. The vast majority of lets are between 1st April to the end of December... 

Throughout 2022, we have seen demand outweigh supply for a broad range of commercial and residential farms, large agricultural blocks of land and smaller land parcels.

Throughout 2022, we have seen demand outweigh supply for a broad range of commercial and residential farms, large agricultural blocks of land and smaller land parcels.

Throughout 2022, we have seen demand outweigh supply for a broad range of commercial and residential farms, large agricultural blocks of land and smaller land parcels.

Claire Pile MARLA discusses the importance for landlords to ensure they keep up to date with the changes made in 2021. 

In case you missed our recent Lettings update webinar, follow the link to watch the full video.

Stags will be looking to deliver a series of webinars on the key areas effecting the private rented sector in the West Country to include the current market, tenant demand, compliance and legislation updates as well as buy to let and investment advice. The webinars will be available to all, and welcome both new and existing landlords to be involved. There has never been a better time to let your property or consider a buy to let investment but ensuring you and your property are fully compliant is also as important as ever.

To book your place for the first webinar taking place on Wednesday 30^th June at 2:30pm, click 'more'.

Stags will be looking to deliver a series of webinars on the key areas effecting the private rented sector in the West Country to include the current market, tenant demand, compliance and legislation updates as well as buy to let and investment advice. The webinars will be available to all, and welcome both new and existing landlords to be involved. There has never been a better time to let your property or consider a buy to let investment but ensuring you and your property are fully compliant is also as important as ever.

To book your place for the first webinar taking place on Wednesday 30^th June at 2:30pm, click 'more'.

Stags will be looking to deliver a series of webinars on the key areas effecting the private rented sector in the West Country to include the current market, tenant demand, compliance and legislation updates as well as buy to let and investment advice. The webinars will be available to all, and welcome both new and existing landlords to be involved. There has never been a better time to let your property or consider a buy to let investment but ensuring you and your property are fully compliant is also as important as ever.

To book your place for the first webinar taking place on Wednesday 30^th June at 2:30pm, click 'more'.

Stags was established in 1874, therefore, we have many years of experience, contacts and relationships to continue to build upon. In recent months we have had many new faces join our team, all bringing additional strength and expertise to our offering.

Online auctions have grown in popularity this year, with convenience and ease of bidding seeing this method set to stay. Our latest sale, held in November, has yet again received record numbers of entries and bids.

As confirmed at the end of April the government have extended the deadline for Basic Payment Scheme Applications in 2020 to the 15th June to submit an application without penalty. The same deadline has also been given for submission of annual Environmental Stewardship or Countryside Stewardship claim forms...

As many of us are either ‘working from home’ or ‘staying at home’ in line with Government guidelines, thoughts of moving house in 2020 may start to gather momentum.

The usual first step would be to contact your local Stags office and arrange a ‘face to face’ Market Appraisal with one of our valuers. Clearly at the current time this is not an option however we fully appreciate how much our client’s value local knowledge....

As many of us are either ‘working from home’ or ‘staying at home’ in line with Government guidelines, thoughts of moving house in 2020 may start to gather momentum.

The usual first step would be to contact your local Stags office and arrange a ‘face to face’ Market Appraisal with one of our valuers. Clearly at the current time this is not an option however we fully appreciate how much our client’s value local knowledge....

Tara Drewett has passed her NfoPP Level 3 Technical Award in Residential Letting and Property Management.

The local buyers fell in love with this Devon Longhouse in their search to relocate from Cornwall to Devon.

We re-marketed the property in two land options, attracting potential buyers looking for land and those wanting a just a garden with outbuildings.

Kevin Clarke discusses the East Devon property market and explains why tough competition for correctly-priced properties means those thinking of selling in 2018 should act sooner rather than later.