11 May When is the right time to put your house on the market?

Thinking of selling your home? Before you pitch the For-Sale sign and tell the neighbours, there may be some things to consider – and it usually comes down to time. That’s right, we’re talking about the age-old question: when is the right time to put your house on the market?

After all, picking the right time to sell is important – if you pick the ‘wrong’ time and your house remains unsold for a long time, buyers may wonder why and presume there’s something wrong with it. This can mean it takes even longer to sell, or you may have to sell for a lower price.

Alternatively, picking a time when there are lots of buyers can have a positive impact. There’ll be competition between buyers, which can mean an increase in sale prices – and you’ll be likely to sell faster. That’s not the only thing you should know though so here we answer some age-old property market questions. 

When is the best time to put your house on the market?

Traditionally, springtime is the best – between February and June – with March proving to be the month with the speediest sales. If between February and June isn’t achievable for you, then the next best time is in the autumn – between September and October. 

When is the worst time to put your house on the market?

The worst time to sell is during the school summer holidays (July to August) and during the Christmas build up (November to December) – as people are typically busy so these periods are best avoided if possible.  

What else affects the best time to put your house for sale?

Although listing your house in the springtime is traditionally the best time, there are other factors at play – such as the type of property you’re looking to sell. 

One and two-bed flats and terrace houses are best sold in either January, February or September. With the target buyers being first-timers and young couples, they often start their house-hunt in the new year after spending one too many Christmases in the family home. They’re also back house-hunting after the summer holidays, with hopes of getting into their new home in time for Christmas.

Three and four-bedroom family homes are often bought by second-time buyers who already have children, so they’re hunting outside of the school holidays – meaning it’s best to avoid listing your three or four beds during the Easter, summer or Christmas holidays. Bungalows and retirement homes are targeted at elderly down-sizers who are looking to buy during the warmer months – so it’s best to list this type of home during June and September.  

Anything else to consider?

Putting your house on the market when you’re house-hunting can put you in a stronger position as a buyer. It shows sellers that you’re serious and motivated to find your next home, and it can reduce delays in the selling process – which is attractive to everyone in the chain. 

Organising to move into rented accommodation or opting to stay with family or friends once your house has sold can help with the sale of your house too – as it means you’re chain-free, which is again attractive to prospective buyers. 

Got any questions about the above information? Our team of property experts would be delighted to help. Drop us a message or pop into our Chapel Street office and let’s kickstart your property sale today.