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As the market fluctuates and selling your home can feel unpredictable, you might be wondering, when is the best time to sell your house? While life events often dictate when we move – think the ‘three Ds’ (divorce, debt, and death) – there are certain times of year when you are more likely to sell your home quickly, at the right price.
Spring consistently delivers the highest buyer interest, faster sales, and better offers, with autumn coming in as a strong alternative. But why do these periods work so well, and what if you can’t wait until then? In this article, we’ll explore when to consider selling your property and the times of year to avoid.
The best time to sell your house
As reported by Rightmove, the best time to sell a house in the UK is typically what the property market industry considers the ‘spring period’ which runs between February and June. This time sees the highest demand, thanks to longer days, better weather, and buyers looking for a fresh start.
What the market considers to be the autumn period, (September to October), is the next best window of opportunity, attracting motivated buyers keen to move before Christmas.
And if speed is your priority? January can also work well. Fewer properties on the market mean less competition, and buyers searching early in the year are often serious about making an offer.
Selling your house in the spring
Spring is widely regarded as the prime season for selling, and for good reason:
- High buyer interest: According to Propertymark, after the New Year, many buyers are ready for a fresh start and actively searching.
- Aesthetic appeal: Longer days and blooming gardens make homes look their best, boosting curb appeal.
- Convenient timing: School holidays and bank holidays give buyers more flexibility for viewings.
Top Tip
Don’t wait until March to start preparing. Get valuations, instruct solicitors, and organise photography in January or February so you’re ready to hit the market as demand peaks.
Selling your home in autumn
Unable to sell your home in spring? Autumn offers a strong alternative. Here’s why:
- Serious buyers: Many want to complete before Christmas, making them highly motivated.
- First-time buyers: September is particularly popular among those keen to settle before the festive season.
- Focused viewings: While overall numbers may be lower than spring, those looking are usually committed.
For top tips on selling your house in autumn, take a look at our blog with advice from Sotheby’s International Realty.
The worst time to sell your house
The winter slump
December is the slowest month for property sales. Buyers are focused on festive plans, and poor weather makes viewings less appealing. That said, January and early February can see a spike from serious buyers who missed out the previous year.
The mid-summer slump
July and August often bring a slowdown as families head off on holiday and attention shifts to school breaks.
Factors beyond the seasons
Timing matters, but it’s not everything. These factors can make or break a sale:
Property pricing
Presentation and appeal
Local market conditions
Frequently asked questions
Is there a ‘worst’ time of year to sell a house?
Which month do houses sell the fastest in the UK?
How long does the house-selling process take on average?
What if I have to sell my house outside of the peak seasons?
Does the time of year affect the final sale price?
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Sources
Propertymark – Selling your home [propertymark.co.uk]
Rightmove – When is the best time of year to sell a home?
Rightmove Press Centre – February & March are the best months to list a home for sale.
https://www.zoopla.co.uk/discover/selling/when-should-i-put-my-home-on-the-market/. [zoopla.co.uk]
HomeOwners Alliance – How to tell if a house is overpriced
Written by Matthew Ashton
I started working in the insurance industry in 2004. Four years later, I left to focus on theological studies, working as a youth worker and then as a ministry director in Seattle, USA. When returning to the UK, I had an opportunity to work for the late Andrew Marchington. I joined his firm as a sales advisor when it had around ten staff members. Within three years, I was Head of Ops with a staff team of over 30 people. After a chance encounter in 2019 with Rachel Living and Will Cooper, I co-started Stanhope to build a high-value home, luxury watch, and jewellery broker synonymous with trust. I love being with Donna, my wife, and four kids when not working, cramming in the odd row, or run when I can. I am fortunate to love what I do and consider it a blessing to grow the Stanhope brand.