In today’s busy property market, grabbing a potential buyer’s attention quickly is essential. The first thing most people notice about a property for sale or rent is the estate agent board placed outside. If your sign looks like everyone else’s, you risk blending into the background. That’s why custom shapes and sizes are becoming a popular choice for estate agents who want to stand out.
This blog explores how you can use creative estate agent boards to build brand recognition, catch the eye of passers-by, and ultimately increase enquiries. From design ideas to practical tips, we’ll show you how custom boards can make a real difference.
The Limitations of Standard Boards
Traditional estate agent boards often follow the same format—typically rectangular “T” boards made from Correx. While these standard designs are familiar and affordable, they don’t offer much when it comes to visual interest.
In areas where multiple properties are listed by different agents, a plain board may get lost in the crowd. Standard boards also don’t always reflect the unique branding of your agency, missing an opportunity to reinforce your identity with every listing.
So, how can estate agents break free from the ordinary? The answer lies in custom shapes and sizes.
Why Go Custom? The Benefits of Unique Shapes and Sizes
Custom boards bring more than just aesthetics—they bring results. Here are some key benefits of using a unique design:
1. Improved Visibility
An unusual shape naturally draws attention. Whether it’s a circular board or one cut into the shape of a house, it creates visual curiosity that helps your board stand out.
2. Better Branding
A board that reflects your logo, colour scheme, or company personality is more memorable. Custom boards help build brand recognition across neighbourhoods.
3. Tailored to the Property
Different properties have different needs. A small flat may not have space for a large rectangular board. A luxury home might deserve a bigger, premium-looking sign. Custom sizes allow you to fit the board to the space and the target market.
4. Higher Engagement
When people notice your board, they’re more likely to read it, remember it, and contact you. Unusual designs are more likely to be photographed or shared on social media, too, giving your brand extra exposure.
Types of Custom Shapes: Inspiration and Ideas
There are many ways to personalise estate agent boards using shape. Here are some creative ideas:
● Logo-Shaped Boards
Imagine your company logo cut out and used as the board shape. It’s an effective method of maintaining your brand’s prominence.
● House or Key Shapes
A board shaped like a house or a key instantly communicates the purpose of the sign and helps make it more relevant and recognisable.
● Arrows or Directional Signs
Boards that point towards the property can guide people to harder-to-find homes and add a playful element to your signs.
● Circular or Oval Boards
These break away from the typical rectangle and are great for modern, minimalist branding.
● Cut-Out Text
Die-cut shapes such as “SOLD” or “LET” boards with stencil-style lettering are bold and effective, especially when placed alongside your regular signs.
All of these shapes can be achieved using correx printing, a lightweight and cost-effective method that supports precision cutting while keeping the boards sturdy and waterproof.
Choosing the Right Size for the Right Property
The size of your board should match the type of property you’re advertising and the location it’s in. Here’s a general guide:
- Large Detached Homes: Larger boards offer more presence and can be seen from a distance, especially on wide streets or in countryside settings.
- City Flats or Apartments: A smaller, compact board fits better on balconies, windows, or railings and still gets the job done without overwhelming the space.
- Rental Properties: A neat, reusable design that can be moved from property to property quickly saves time and cost.
- Commercial Spaces: Custom sizes are ideal for offices, shops, or industrial units where branding needs to look professional and align with the type of business.
Before choosing an oversized or unusually shaped board, always check with the local council or authority regarding display regulations, especially in conservation areas or heritage zones.
Materials Matter: Durability with Style
It’s important that your custom boards not only look good but also last through wind, rain, and sun. That’s why correx printing is one of the most popular choices for estate agent boards.
Correx is a corrugated plastic that’s both lightweight and strong. It holds its shape well, even with custom cuts, and resists water and fading. Here are a few other material options you can consider:
- Foamex: Offers a smoother surface and sharper print quality—great for high-end listings.
- Aluminium Composite: Extremely durable and rigid. Ideal for long-term signage or premium-looking boards.
Whatever material you choose, make sure the inks and finishes used are UV-stable and waterproof so your signs continue to look sharp even after weeks outdoors.
Design Tips for Custom Boards
The shape and size of your board are important, but design is key to making the most of the space. Here are some tips to keep your signs looking professional and effective:
- Use Bold Fonts: Clear, readable text helps people quickly understand who you are and what the board says.
- Keep Text to a Minimum: Stick to essential details—company name, phone number, and website. Too much text makes the board hard to read at a glance.
- High Contrast Colours: Light text on a dark background (or vice versa) improves visibility and readability.
- Add QR Codes: A small QR code linking to the property listing makes it easier for people to get more details instantly.
- Consistent Branding: Make sure your board design matches your website, brochures, and office signage. This builds trust and professionalism.
Things to Consider Before Ordering Custom Boards
Before you order your custom estate agent boards, keep the following in mind:
- Production Time: Custom boards may take a little longer to produce than standard ones, so plan ahead.
- Installation: Make sure the design you choose can be mounted easily, either onto posts, walls, fences, or railings.
- Budget: While custom boards might cost more upfront, they often lead to more enquiries and quicker sales or lettings, making them worth the investment.
- Storage: Irregularly shaped boards may take up more space when storing or transporting.
- Planning Permission: Always check with local authorities, especially for larger or uniquely positioned boards.
Conclusion
In a competitive property market, a distinctive estate agent board can set your agency apart. Opting for custom shapes and sizes boosts visibility, reinforces your brand identity, and leaves a memorable impression. With smart design choices and high-quality correx printing, you can achieve standout signage without sacrificing durability or professionalism. Whether you’re promoting luxury homes, student lets, or commercial spaces, there’s a custom solution to suit every requirement.
For expert advice and premium signage, Board Printing Company provides tailored estate agent board options across the UK. Speak to our professional team to bring your ideas to life.
