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

6th March 2025

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There is a lot to think about when selling your home and when to list is a tricky decision for many people. Naturally, you want your property to sell for the best price possible and it is likely you would prefer a short timeframe, too. So, when should you list your home for sale? Let us find out…

What affects the best time for selling?

Newcomers to the property market may think there are no ‘good’ or ‘bad’ times to sell but there are many factors at play.

Choosing to enter the market at the right time can have a huge impact on the speed, price and ultimate success of a sale.

Consider the following as you think about selling your home:

  • Season

Traditionally, the property market is at its busiest in spring, with families looking to move ahead of the new school year in September. However, with more houses on the market, there is more competition.

  • Market trends

People are psychologically affected by market trends. If house sales are increasing, they may be more motivated to move and vice versa.

  • Buyer demand and housing supply

The relationship between the number of house-hunters and property stock will naturally impact your chances of attracting a buyer. If there are lots of buyers and limited homes for sale, your chances are good.

  • External influences

Mortgage rates, the state of the economy and various government policies all play a significant role in the buoyancy of the housing market. Buyers need to feel confident in their finances before committing to a sale.

Is now a good time to list my home for sale?

You may be pleased to hear that now is a good time to sell! Here is why:

  • Although it is now too late to beat the April stamp duty increase, the deadline has brought a general sense of urgency to the market that benefits house-sellers. There are plenty of highly motivated buyers looking to move right now.
  • There is a limited stock of houses for sale at the moment, meaning buyers have less to choose from. This means your listing is more likely to stand out and attract a buyer.
  • We are still experiencing ‘new year momentum’ with buyers acting on their new year’s resolutions to move. Buyers at this time are keen and motivated.
  • House prices have been rising steadily for a while due to high demand and low stock. You should get a good return on your property.
  • Beat the rush: spring is traditionally considered the most popular time to move and lots of properties go up for sale. If you can list now, your property will stand out with less competition.

Tips for selling your home

If you are serious about selling your home, there are some simple things you can do to help the process:

1. Make the property appealing to buyers

De-clutter, depersonalise and clean the house from top to bottom. The key is to allow buyers to imagine themselves living in the space.

2. Make minor repairs

Buyers will be distracted/put off by a shabby appearance. Quickly going around and filling small cracks, replacing cracked tiles, straightening wonky cupboard doors and even re-painting walls in neutral tones are all excellent steps towards impressing buyers.

3. Improve the first impression

Do not forget kerb appeal. First impressions really matter and you want prospective buyers to enter the property in a positive mindset. Make the front of the house attractive: pull up weeds, clean the driveway, repaint the door, add some pot-plants and do anything else that might make the approach to the property inviting.

4. Price competitively

Listen to the advice of a trusted estate agent as you choose the price for your property. It is important to get the balance right to attract serious buyers.

How do I choose the right estate agent when selling my home?

Estate agents are key to property transactions. When selling, your agent will help you set the price, market effectively, attract serious buyers, manage viewings and assist with the various pieces of paperwork required.

Choosing the right agent will help secure the best price possible and sell within your desired timeframe. Choose someone who is experienced, approachable, and located nearby and has unrivalled local property knowledge. You want someone who understands your goals and can help you achieve them as they guide you through the sometimes daunting world of property transactions.

Get in touch

As we have discovered, due to market conditions now is an excellent time to think about selling your home, and we are here to help. At Charters Estate Agents, we have years of experience helping people buy and sell and are ready to answer all your questions.

We have several branches throughout Hampshire and Surrey offering local expertise to our valued clients. Please do not hesitate to get in touch, discuss your goals and see how we can help.

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