Autumn isn't just about crisp air, golden leaves, and pumpkin spice lattes – it’s also a great time to sell your home. With buyers returning from their summer holidays and eager to settle into a new home before Christmas, this season offers a unique window of opportunity.
When most people think of selling their home in spring, the autumn market can be a hidden gem for homeowners looking to capitalise on market conditions and make their property stand out. Here’s why autumn is a good opportunity to sell your home.
1. The autumn market has started early this year
This year, the traditionally busy autumn market has started early. Buyers are jumping at the chance to move as mortgage rates trend downwards and property options expand. With average asking prices for new listings climbing by 0.8% (+£2,974) this September to £370,759, sellers are in a strong position. This increase, which is double the long-term seasonal average, is driven by heightened buyer activity this autumn (Rightmove). On average, homes sold in September 2024 are moving off the market in just 60 days – a significant improvement from 78 days in January (Rightmove).
2. Serious buyers, less competition
In the UK, just like in other countries, buyers in autumn tend to be more motivated and serious. Those looking to move before the end of the year or after the busy summer holidays often want to complete their home purchase quickly. Parents may also want to settle into a new home before the Christmas holidays and the second term of the school year begins, making autumn a focused period for families looking to relocate. With the housing market typically less crowded than in the spring and summer, your property can stand out among the limited listings, making it easier to attract motivated buyers. Autumn in the UK sees fewer homes on the market than the spring peak, meaning sellers benefit from less competition. This works in your favour, as buyers have fewer options and may be willing to make an offer quicker, knowing that there’s less time before the winter slowdown. While there is often a pre-Christmas rush in the UK property market, it's not as competitive as the frenzy that happens in the spring.
3. Autumn sets the stage for a cosy scene
The beautiful autumnal colours across the UK can enhance the look of your garden or surrounding area, giving your home better curb appeal. The soft sunlight during autumn can also create a warm and welcoming atmosphere inside, making your home feel more inviting. British homes are often associated with comfort and cosiness, especially during the colder months. Autumn provides a unique opportunity to highlight features that make homes feel snug, such as fireplaces, double glazing, or energy-efficient heating systems, which become more important to buyers as winter approaches. You can use autumn’s natural charm to your advantage by staging your home with tasteful seasonal touches. A wreath on the door, warm-toned cushions, or subtle autumn décor can evoke the feeling of a cosiness, which is particularly appealing to UK buyers looking for a home that will feel warm and comfortable through the winter.
4. Pre-Christmas motivation
Autumn is the last chance for many families to settle into a new home before the Christmas holidays. For those with school-aged children, moving before the second half of the school year starts in January is a big motivator. Parents looking to move into good school catchment areas may feel an urgency to complete their purchase in autumn so they can settle their children into a routine. Additionally, buyers who missed out on homes during the busy summer period often come back in autumn, eager to find something before the end of the year. The Christmas break can act as a natural deadline, motivating them to move quickly and make decisions faster than they might in spring or summer.
5. Better market stability and buyer intent
In the UK, the property market tends to be more stable in the autumn. Mortgage rates are often more predictable, and the market isn’t as flooded with homes as it is in the spring. This can make autumn a good time to attract serious buyers who are prepared to make an offer and complete the transaction before winter sets in. Moreover, the period leading up to Christmas sees people more focused on securing deals quickly, adding to the urgency. Buyers are often eager to wrap up their home purchase in autumn so they can move in before the holiday season or the start of the new year.
6. Potential savings and less stress
Spring and early summer are typically the busiest times for the UK property market, with estate agents, solicitors, surveyors experiencing an increase in activity. In contrast, the summer months bring a quieter period, with the market picking up again in the autumn—though not as intensely as in spring. During autumn, this reduced demand can work to your advantage. Paperwork and surveys are often processed more quickly, and it's easier to book the removal company of your choice, often on your preferred date. Additionally, many removal companies offer discounts in autumn to attract business, providing further potential savings.
Final thoughts
With fewer competing listings, serious buyers, mild weather, and the natural beauty of the season, your home can really stand out. Families are motivated by the approaching school term and Christmas holidays, while buyers appreciate the comfort and warmth that British homes offer during this season.
While spring is considered the prime season for home sales, autumn presents unique advantages that make it an ideal time to sell. With serious buyers, lower competition and beautiful natural scenery, autumn offers the perfect conditions to close a sale. Embrace the warmth and cosiness of the season, and you might find yourself with a successful sale before winter even begins.
