HCB Solicitors Unveils House Buying Trends
- Listing your house on May 1st maximizes your chances of selling.
- January is the worst month to sell your property.
- HCB Solicitors identifies 5 turn-offs for buyers that can hurt your chances of selling.
Timing can significantly influence the success to sell your house, as highlighted by HCB Solicitors based on current trends in the UK property market. Whether you are downsizing, upsizing, relocating, or experiencing relationship changes, timing is crucial for sellers under pressure.
According to data from Rightmove, the period from May to July is the best time to sell your house , especially if you’re looking for a quick turnaround. Conversely, January is the worst month, often taking an average of 11 weeks to secure a buyer, following the Christmas holidays.
Mike Hayne, Business Development Manager at HCB Widdows Mason said: “The increase in sales during May could be due to the Spring Budget, which typically outlines changes to housing market policies effective from April. Buyers often wait to assess market stability before committing to buying a property.
“The improved weather in spring also plays a role, as homes tend to look better in the less miserable months, attracting more buyers.
“From making an offer to moving in, the process typically takes between 8 to 12 weeks. The heightened interest in May, June, and July could be attributed to buyers wanting to settle into their new homes by autumn in time for Christmas. Additionally, families sometimes aim to move before the start of the academic year due to school enrolment.
“Before moving in, it’s common to estimate monthly expenses such as mortgage, insurance, utilities, and taxes. However, moving in spring or summer may lead to underestimating budgets, as warmer months reduce gas and electricity use, potentially causing unexpected financial strains.
“Despite slower sales in January, subsequent months often see an increase in purchases as people settle into New Year resolutions, whether changing jobs, taking holidays, or buying property.
“Understanding these seasonal shifts is crucial for sellers seeking to sell their home quickly. However, timing can be unpredictable, especially during relocations or personal changes.”
Tips on how to sell your house quickly:
1. Avoid overly personal decor: Flamboyant colour schemes may put off buyers so paint your home in neutral colours such as light greys and beiges to appeal to a broader range of people.
2. Declutter: Remove excess furniture and personal items to make rooms appear larger and well looked after.
3. Curb appeal: Clean up your front garden, driveway and windows as first impressions matter.
4. Fix minor repairs: Deal with the “quick fixes” by repairing any visible issues like paintwork, leaky taps and holes in the wall.
5. Stage your home: Arrange furniture to showcase the space, put away any washing and rubbish, clear the space to show off the potential of each room.
Common buyer turn-offs:
1. Poor maintenance: If there are visible signs of neglect, such as overgrown gardens or damaged fixtures, this can deter buyers.
2. Bad odours: Unwelcoming smells from four legged friends, tobacco or damp can make it difficult to shift your property.
3. Décor choices: Painting bold colour can make it hard for buyers to envision themselves in your home.
4. Clutter: Too much furniture, wall hangings or personal items dotted around the place can make rooms feel smaller and claustrophobic.
5. Dim lighting: Dark and poorly lit rooms can appear unwelcoming and smaller than they are and, in some cases, make it look like you’re hiding something.
