William Cooper

Written by

William Cooper

Reviewed by Matthew Ashton

7 minute read

Updated 28th October 2024

Are you looking to sell your high value home? If so, is there any better time than autumn? The cooler temperatures and vibrant-coloured leaves can make homes look cosier and inviting. Meanwhile, the draw of being able to move in by Christmas might help to motivate potential buyers.

But selling in autumn isn’t without its challenges. From shorter daylight hours limiting viewing times, to unpredictable weather deterring potential buyers from viewings, gloomy skies, and fallen leaves reducing curb appeal, there are certain things you need to keep in mind to ensure that your high value home reaches its full selling potential.

Is autumn a good time to sell a home?

Autumn can be a very good time of year to sell your home. With the summer holidays over and children back to school, buyers could have more time and motivation for viewings.

This time of year can also attract buyers who want to get things wrapped up quickly so they can move into their new home by Christmas. While sellers typically flood the market during the spring, autumn tends to see fewer properties for sale. With less competition, your property has a better chance of being noticed and It can also be a great time to show off your home’s best qualities. The weather can still be mild, which can help your home look its best.

The best time to sell your home typically depends on the local area and the current market conditions. Therefore, you should always get advice from a local real estate agent on the right time to put your home on the market.

7 Tips for selling your home in autumn

Choosing to sell your home in autumn can be a smart move. However, you still need to make sure your home is in the best possible shape to attract serious buyers. Here are our top seven tips to help you make the most of the autumn market and sell your home quickly.

1. Make sure that it’s got curb appeal

You only have one chance to make a good first impression, which is why curb appeal is so important. It’s all about making the exterior of your home appealing to potential buyers so that even before they’ve approached the front door, your home is already looking welcoming and attractive.

To achieve good curb appeal, start by making sure that your driveway and front garden are well-maintained by clearing away any rubbish and fallen leaves, mowing the lawn and trimming hedges. If your front or garage door looks tired, give it a fresh coat of paint. Potted plants can also create a warm, inviting atmosphere (make sure to regularly water and maintain them to keep them looking good). Also, don’t forget to keep windows clean and pathways clear so that your home looks well cared for.

2. Clean out that garden

Gardens are a huge bonus in today’s property market. Some potential buyers can fall in love with a property simply because of its garden. However, on the flip side, an overgrown, neglected garden can instantly put off viewers.

Make sure your garden looks its best by spending some time mowing the lawn, removing tools and rubbish, and pruning and clearing away leaves and dead plants. A tidy, well-maintained garden is more inviting and inspiring for potential buyers.

3. Showcase your property with light

Autumn’s shorter days make it even more important to maximise the use of light to boost your home’s appeal. Before every viewing, tie back the curtains and fully open the blinds to bring as much light in as possible. Remove any accessories or furniture and cut back any plants blocking windows. Ensure all your windows are clean inside and out, as dirty windows can block out a surprising amount of light. Check all the light bulbs are working and that there’s enough lamps and lights to make your home feel light, bright and welcoming.

You can also open up any dark corners with a small table and lamp. To make your house feel even more homely during evening viewings, turn on all the lights before viewers arrive.

4. Have a deep clean

A golden rule that every seller should follow is to give your home a deep clean. Dust, dirt and clutter can accumulate, especially over the busy summer months. Clear away all the summer clothes, toys and garden games, put the paddling pool and barbeque away, and thoroughly clean every corner of your home. There’s nothing like the autumn sun for revealing dust, dirt and fingerprints, so make sure that the windows, floors and surfaces shine.

Autumn is also a good time to give your carpets a professional clean, and if they’re badly worn, you may even want to consider replacing them. A deep clean will leave your home feeling wonderfully fresh and give the impression of a well-maintained, cared-for home. It also eliminates any unwanted odours lingering from cooking or pets, which can be off-putting to viewers.

5. Opt for autumnal decor and scents

There’s something wonderfully cosy and inviting about autumnal colours. You can use this to your advantage when selling your home. Consider incorporating autumnal decor and scents around your home to create a warm, inviting atmosphere for potential buyers who are viewing your home.

Warm-toned cushions (shades of brown, creams and burnt orange) and cosy throws can make your home feel welcoming. Natural autumn scents such as wood, apple or cinnamon can also help to create a relaxing environment. Just a few autumnal touches can make a big difference.

6. Ventilate the house

One drawback of autumn is the reappearance of condensation on windows, especially if you’ve started putting the heating on. Regularly airing your home can really help to reduce the risk of wet windows, especially just before viewings. Ventilating your home also helps your home feel fresh and eliminates dampness and musty odours. It makes your home feel more welcoming and shows potential buyers that the property is well cared for.

7. Turn the heating on for a cosy feel

There’s nothing quite like walking into a warm home on a cool autumnal day. A slightly heated home creates a sense of comfort while showing viewers that your home is well-insulated and ready for the winter. Perhaps, put the wood burner on, if you have one, for that extra special touch! However, be careful not to overdo it. If it’s too hot, it will feel stuffy and uncomfortable.

Remember, first impressions count!

Regardless of the time of year, remember that first impressions make a huge difference when selling a home. When your property is in top condition, you have a better chance of attracting potential buyers and making a lasting impact on them during viewings.

However, it also presents certain challenges, such as shorter daylight hours, unpredictable weather, and the need to showcase a warm and cosy home. Stay on top of maintenance at the front of your home, maximising light, and using just enough heating to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Once you’ve secured a buyer and are looking for your own perfect property, securing the right home insurance should be at the top of your to-do list. For high-value homes, Stanhope’s high-value home insurance provides comprehensive coverage tailored to your needs.

We offer unique and tailored insurance solutions for valuable assets and luxury properties. So, whatever the future holds, you’ll have peace of mind that you’re covered.

Claire Reynolds, Managing Director Sotheby’s International Realty

Q&A

When your clients view properties, what do you think is the biggest draw for them? 

The decision making process is multifaceted, and varies according to reason for purchasing – whether main residence, second home, buying for children or for investment. Calibre of location remains the single most important factor, as it underpins the investment value. Other elements will be weighted according to personal circumstances, such as budget, lifestyle and timing.  

Do you have an increase in enquiries or listings during autumn and winter?

Is autumn a busier time of year for you?

Autumn is typically one of the busiest seasons of the year. There is a sense of finality as year end approaches which often focuses buyers’ and sellers’ minds on wanting to conclude a transaction by Christmas. Certain neighbourhoods historically see their highest transaction volume in Q4 every year. 

Why do you think autumn is a great time to sell? 

Autumn is better for selling properties in cities rather than the countryside, as gardens are typically less prominent for urban homes. Certain properties are at their best in autumn, for example those with working fires which if utilised during viewings, make a big statement in welcoming buyers into the home. Buyers make their decision based on practical and emotional criteria, and features such as fireplaces and warm lighting during the cold and dark autumn months can carry significant emotional weight.  

Presentation of a home is key, for both the marketing collateral to maximise enquiries and for the viewing experience. Occasionally we recommend doing minor touch ups of paint or adding new carpets before selling, but as a rule, as soon as a seller starts doing major work such as replacing a bathroom, it dates the rest of the property. For unfurnished homes, we recommend either investing in rental furniture, or having the marketing photos virtually staged. Don’t underestimate the importance of high quality presentation for the marketing collateral, as without enquiries and viewings the property won’t sell.  

A further tip is to provide easy access, within reason, for viewings. Buyer viewing behaviour varies across location, with country buyers typically booking viewings in advance, compared to Prime Central London buyers who seek immediacy with short-notice viewing requests.  

Claire Reynolds, Managing Partner, United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty

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Sources

https://hoa.org.uk/advice/guides-for-homeowners/i-am-selling/when-is-the-best-time-to-sell-my-house

https://www.jonesrobinson.co.uk/articles/6-tips-for-preparing-your-house-for-an-autumn-sale

https://www.jdg.co.uk/blog/preparing-your-home-for-sale/7-tips-to-sell-your-home-in-the-autumn.html

https://strawberrystar.co.uk/best-and-worst-time-to-sell-your-house

www.theadvisory.co.uk/house-selling/best-time-to-sell-house/

www.hoa.org.uk/advice/guides-for-homeowners/i-am-selling/when-is-the-best-time-to-sell-my-house/

Written by William Cooper

I started insurance broking in 2009. I followed my great-grandfather, grandfather, and father into the world of insurance. In 2019, I decided I wanted to do things differently. I formed Stanhope in 2019 with Matthew Ashton and Rachel Living. We want to shake up the industry! Let's make insurance cool and useful for our customers. Let's improve the customer journey and get them to trust us as their insurance company. Let's pay claims quickly; let's be excellent and honest in all that we do!

William Cooper

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