30th November 2022 / Sarah Lowry: 10 Great Reasons to Sell at Christmas

Deciding when to sell is often a balancing act of juggling normal commitments of work, school and daily life together with the time it takes to maximise the value of your home and prepare it for sale.

A popular reason among families to move during summer holidays is to allow the kids to start at their new schools at the beginning of the academic year. If your home will appeal to young families, this is a great reason to put up a for sale sign at this time of year.

Another plus for a summertime sale is the positive attitude of prospective buyers. They tend to be serious, wanting to strike a deal and push through the settlement so they can begin their new year with a new start.

Your choice of agent is a critical factor in a summer sale. You need someone who understands the different approaches required to sell a property over the holiday period. Ask for a comparison of summer sales figures against other times of the year.

As an experienced local real estate agent, we'd be delighted to discuss how we could approach a marketing campaign for your property. We see many families looking to climb the property ladder in the summer months. With everyone at home and on holidays, it can quickly become evident they've outgrown their home and need more space.

Below are some ideas to help you decide on your next steps and prepare your home for sale.

• Throughout December and January especially, there are fewer properties on the market and therefore fewer properties for your home to compete with.
• Interest rates are still relatively low, and there are a number of current government incentives for buyers to take up.
• Property prices fluctuate based on supply and demand. Historically, there are fewer properties on the market in summer but you'll find motivated buyers. In this scenario, you might beat your price expectations.
• Buyers are often optimistic at this time of year and more willing to consider options for their future around Christmas – an enthusiasm for a new start in a new year.
• Consider staging your home. Light furniture materials, such as wicker, and bright colours for throw rugs and cushions, help enhance the wonderful feel of summer.
• If you plan to be open for inspection over the Christmas period, go easy on festive decorations. Don't clutter your home with too much tinsel! For this year, perhaps restrain yourself to a tastefully decorated tree.
• Prepare your home meticulously. Great features such as a swimming pool, spa, entertainment area and lovely gardens are deal-clinchers in summer.
• Consider an upgrade to your entertainment area and make it a real winner for prospective buyers.

• Clean windows, sills and paths as dirt and dust accumulates with a mixture of heat and summer rains.
• Focus on the front of your home to make a good first impression. Keep the lawn well-watered and mown. Cover the flowerbeds with mulch so the plants do not dry out. Consider planting some shade trees to create outdoor ambience.

For further real estate advice, contact your local Fletchers area expert.