Thinking of Selling Your Home? Act Now Before the Christmas Decorations Go Up!

Thu 28 Nov 2024

Ian Butcher, Principal of Firm

As we edge closer to the festive season, many homeowners planning to sell are caught in a dilemma: Is it better to put a house on the market before or after Christmas? At Butcher Residential, we firmly believe that acting before putting up your Christmas decorations is a smart move. Here’s why.

The Power of First Impressions in Marketing

Your home's marketing photos are a key tool in attracting buyers. Including Christmas decorations in these photos might create a warm, fuzzy, festive feeling inside, but they can also date the images. When potential buyers view your property in January or February, those baubles and fairy lights may suggest the property has been on the market for longer than it has. Neutral, timeless photos help maintain a fresh and appealing listing.

A Surge in Buyer Activity Over Christmas

While the festive season may seem like a quiet time for property sales, the data tells a different story. Boxing Day is traditionally one of the busiest days for property searches online, with a record 26% more sellers listing homes in December 2023 compared to 2022. Additionally, the number of buyers contacting estate agents increased by 17% on the same day. This seasonal trend, fuelled by people having more time to plan moves during their holiday break, sets the stage for a bustling market come January​. Sources: Property Reporter and Viewber.

Early Movers Have the Edge

Data from Rightmove and GetAgent highlights that the housing market typically gains momentum right after Christmas. Mortgage approvals are highest in the first quarter of the year, and buyer demand remains robust, with 55.4% of homes finding a buyer in Q1 on average. This means properties listed before Christmas are well-positioned to catch the wave of New Year buyer interest​. Sources: Viewber and IFA Magazine.

How Our Team Here At Butcher Residential Can Help

Booking a valuation with us now ensures your property is market-ready before the festive rush. We'll guide you through the process, from the photography and optional property video tour to preparing your home to attract motivated buyers during this peak period. We use all the tools in the box to help market your property to the best of its ability and we work with your priorities - whether that be a quick sale, to achieve the best sale price or simply to find the most "secure" buyer to minimise a fall-through.

Let us help you make your next move the smoothest one yet!

Book your property valuation now

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