Traditionally spring is the busiest season for the property market. In fact, according to Zoopla, May and June are typically the two months with the highest number of sales agreed across the UK.
But in recent years we’re seeing the Autumn time become just as popular. Many buyers hope to move before Christmas or to get settled ahead of winter, while sellers benefit from a more focused market.
Here’s a look at why October may be the best time to sell your home…
In September/October, summer holidays are long over, the children are back at school, and life settles back into routine. For many, this is a fresh start that could include making a move.
Buyers at this time of year tend to be serious. Some want to complete their move before Christmas, so they can host it in their new home. Others are keen to buy before winter arrives, avoiding the challenges of moving in colder weather. There are also those looking to finalise a purchase before the new year’s financial deadlines, for example, before mortgage offers expire or interest rates shift. This often means faster decision-making, which for sellers, is great.
Autumn is one of the most beautiful times of the year in the UK and it can create a natural warmth that can make homes look more welcoming than ever. This offers you as a seller, an opportunity to show your home at its best.
Gardens often still have life in them until the end of October, and indoors, the softer light of shorter days means you can add candles, lamps or even light a fire for photographs and viewings. It can help buyers instantly imaging themselves feeling cosy and at home.
Also, viewings in cooler weather are often more comfortable than in the height of summer. Buyers will be more likely to take their time.
The housing market often settles into a steady, more balanced rhythm by autumn. Rightmove’s Housing Price Index suggests average asking prices across the UK are expected to remain relatively stable through the rest of the year. If you’re selling you home, you can set the price knowing the market is less likely to swing dramatically up or down.
Because of this stability, buyers feel more confident making an offer when prices aren’t fluctuating wildly, and you can avoid the pressure to slash asking prices for fear of being undercut. Properties are more likely to sell for what they are worth.
Listing your home in October means you could complete your sale before the traditional slowdown of December.
To make the most of selling in this season, presentation is everything.
Sweep away fallen leaves, trim hedges, and make sure your pathway or drive is clean and inviting. A freshly painted front door, perhaps in a warm, deep tone like sage green, navy or burgundy, instantly sets the mood. An autumnal wreath or potted plants on either side of the entrance can create a good first impression.
Indoors, focus on warmth and light. As the days get shorter, ensure lamps are positioned to brighten corners and highlight key features. If you have a fireplace, light it before a viewing or at least stage it attractively with logs or a screen. Soft throws, textured cushions and ambient lighting can make a big difference too. You could also light a spiced or warm vanilla candle to give that cosy feeling!
If you’d like advice on selling on your home this season, or a valuation of your home, please get in touch with our team on 01722 336 422.
With the UK government planning to change the way EPC is calculated, along with raising the minimum standards, it’s worth thinking now about what you need to do to stay compliant. Read More
Find out more
Understanding how we assess a home can help you feel confident that you’re getting an accurate valuation. Read More
Find out more
The new Renters Rights Bill 2025, is likely to be passed in the next few months and will transform the rental housing market. Here are the key points landlords and renters need to know about. Read More
Find out more
Thinking of buying a new home in 2025? Buyers need to act quickly before hikes in Stamp Duty come into force. Read More
Find out more