When is the best time to sell a house in the UK

Selling a house is one of the most stressful life events, so it's no surprise that many homeowners look for ways to make the process smoother. One of the key strategies is determining the best time to sell. 

Whether you’re hoping to attract more buyers or simply curious about the optimal season to list your home, understanding the pros and cons of selling in each season is essential.

In 2023, the UK housing market saw over a million house sales, with the average time from listing to sale being 38 days by the end of the year, according to Zoopla. However, the historically high selling month of March only saw 89,560 sales, leaving many to wonder: When  is the best time to sell a house in 2024?

This guide will explore the best time to sell a house, weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each season, and helping you understand which types of properties sell best at different times of the year.

When is the best time to sell a house?

While each season has its own advantages and challenges when selling a home, Spring is generally considered the best time to put your house on the market. One reason for this is that it avoids school and public holidays, allowing potential buyers to focus fully on their house hunt without distractions.

Spring brings several advantages to sellers. Gardens are usually in full bloom, making homes look more attractive than they would during winter months. The improved garden appeal can be a significant selling point, especially for homes with reasonably sized gardens.

However, determining the best time to sell isn’t as simple as choosing a season. It’s also important to consider historical data, current market trends, and upcoming events that could influence the housing market. For example, elections, geopolitical events or global crises like pandemics can all have an impact.

Historically, what are the best months for selling?

Historically, the period from March to July has been identified as the most favourable for home sales, according to 29 years of housing data from Statistica. Summer, while traditionally seen as slower for the market, often continues the momentum from Spring, especially in the early months.

But, there are many other factors that come into play when timing your sale. Here are some key considerations to keep in mind:

What is the best month for selling a house?

Identifying the best month for selling a house in 2024 is a complex and dynamic process, as highlighted by the 22% decrease in house sales from March 2022 to March 2023. 

Traditionally, March has been seen as an ideal month for quick and profitable sales, but this recent shift suggests that such historical trends may not always be a reliable predictor of future market behaviour.

One factor contributing to this change could be related to the nature of the data used by sources like Zoopla. Their figures usually reflect the average time taken for a seller to accept an offer from a buyer. However, this doesn’t account for the subsequent conveyancing process, which can extend the total time to completion by an additional 30 days or more.

Additionally, the decline in house sales might be influenced by the rate of transactions falling through after an offer has been accepted. In March 2023, for instance, over 25% of accepted offers did not proceed to completion, often due to buyers developing ‘cold feet’. This factor can significantly impact the overall sales figures and the perceived best times to sell.

Despite these considerations, it’s important not to discount early Spring, and particularly March, as a potentially good time to list your property. Housing markets are influenced by a variety of factors, and a downturn in one year doesn’t necessarily set a precedent for the following years so March may still be the best month for selling a house in 2024 – just be wary.

What month do most houses sell in the UK?

In the UK, the housing market experiences its peak activity usually during the Spring with the months of March, April and May often being the busiest and the best month to sell a home.

This trend is driven by a few things like better weather, which makes viewing properties more pleasant, and the desire of many families to complete their move during the summer to avoid disruption to the school year.

Data from the UK property market has consistently shown an uptick in both listings and sales during this period. For instance, according to the UK’s Office for National Statistics, the spring months have traditionally seen higher numbers of property transitions compared to other times of the year.

Additionally, the end of the financial year in April can also be a motivator for those looking to move for financial or tax reasons. However, it's important to note that while spring is usually the most active season for house sales, this can differ year on year.

What is the best month to sell a house fast?

The best month to sell a house fast is in May, right in the heart of the spring season. This is because the spring season offers milder weather, which not only makes property viewings more pleasant but also showcases homes in their best light. Lush gardens and enhanced curb appeal during this time can significantly boost a property’s attractiveness.

Longer days in May provide greater flexibility for viewings, allowing potential buyers to visit properties at more convenient times, including after hours.

Spring, and particularly May, sees an increase in buyer activity. Many individuals and families began their search for a new home during this time, driven by the goal of completing the move before the summer, which is especially important for those with school age children.

According to data from 2023, the spring selling season, especially May, saw houses remaining on the market for an average of just 29 days. This shows the high demand and fast turnaround in the housing market during this period.

Does it really matter what month you sell your house in?

The timing of your house sale — whether by season, month or week — only matters if you plan to sell your house on the open market. In that case, factors like holidays, school terms and weather conditions can influence buyer activity. However, if you choose alternative selling methods, such as using a cash house buyer or a property auction, the specific month won’t make much difference.

Cash buyers, in particular, operate independently of traditional market influences. They have the funds readily available to buy your home and aren’t affected by public holidays or school schedules. At The Property Buying Company, for example, we can buy your house in as little as 7 days, regardless of the time of year.

The only exception is during the Christmas period, when the process might slow down – not because of the market but because solicitors and conveyancers usually close for the holidays. If they stayed open, so would we!

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

The best time to list your home falls in either spring or early autumn, as these seasons benefit from better weather and longer daylight hours. However, the ideal time can vary depending on your region in the UK.

For example:

• Yorkshire and the Humber: Autumn is the prime season for house sales.

• North East: Late spring and early summer tend to be the most favourable times for selling.

• Midlands: October has been identified as the best month for house sales.

• South of England: Spring, particularly in London, is the most advantageous time to list a property.

Beyond regional trends, the timing of your sale should also take into account the specific features and location of your home. Properties in sought after areas or those in excellent condition often attract strong interest regardless of broader market patterns.

Additionally, understanding the current local housing market is important. In a seller’s market, where demand is high and inventory is limited, you may achieve a higher sale price by listing sooner. Conversely, in a buyer’s market, where there are many properties for sale and fewer buyers, it may be harder to sell and the price could be lower.

What is the best season to sell my house in?

Choosing the best season to sell a house can be a complex decision, as there isn't a universal answer that suits every seller's needs. Nonetheless, market trends often indicate that certain times of the year are more favourable for selling properties. Spring, typically March to May, and early autumn, especially September to October, are commonly regarded as prime periods for house sales.

Why these seasons? The more pleasant weather during these times makes properties appear more welcoming, and buyers are generally more inclined to envision their future in a new home.

Is it a good idea to sell my house in Spring?

The best month to sell a home in Spring: March or April

Spring is particularly advantageous for selling houses and as we know April and May are equally the best month for selling a house. Longer days and gardens in full bloom greatly enhance a property's visual appeal. Additionally, the absence of major school or public holidays in spring means fewer distractions for potential buyers, allowing them to focus more on finding their ideal home.

Is Summer a good time to sell a house in the UK?

The best month to sell a house in Summer: June

Contrarily, summer, particularly July and August, is often less suitable for selling properties. The summer holidays play a significant role in this, as many people are preoccupied with vacations and family commitments, leaving less time and interest for house hunting. 

According to estateagent4me, the average time to sell a house in these months is around 65 days, making them some of the slowest in the year.

Should I sell my house in Autumn?

The best month to sell a home in Autumn: October

Autumn can be surprisingly effective for selling houses. If the weather remains mild, the absence of major holidays can be beneficial. October, in particular, is known for facilitating quicker sales. The cooler weather of early autumn also motivates buyers to secure a new home before winter, creating a sense of urgency that can benefit sellers.

Is it a good idea to sell my house in Winter?

The best month to sell a home in Winter: February

Selling a house in winter, especially in the run-up to Christmas, can be challenging. People are often preoccupied with holiday preparations, which can overshadow their house-hunting plans. 

However, January presents a renewed opportunity for selling, as people start contemplating lifestyle changes in the new year. According to estateagent4me, January is one of the better months for a faster sale, averaging around 60 days.

What are the best properties to sell at different times of the year?

Flats and terraced houses sell best in January, February or September, as they attract first-time buyers, young couples and property investors motivated by a fresh start or wanting to settle before Christmas. 

Family homes are ideal to sell in May or September, outside of school holidays when families are less busy. Luxury homes benefit most from being listed in Spring or Autumn, when they can be presented at their best. 

Bungalows are most appealing during the summer months (June to September), when older buyers prefer pleasant weather for viewings, and gardens look their finest.

What time of year do flats sell the best?

If you are selling a 1 or 2-bedroom flat, terraced property or maisonette, your ideal buyer will be a first-time buyer, young couple or property investor. The best months for selling a flat, terraced property, or maisonette are January, February or September.

The rationale is that these buyers are often inspired by the desire for change in the new year, with some motivated by the idea of spending one last Christmas in their current home before moving.

Additionally, the period after the summer holidays is attractive to these buyers, as they might aim to settle into a new home by the upcoming Christmas season.

Property investors will be less swayed by the best month for selling a house, but it may still have some weight on when they buy. For example, if your flat is within a student hotspot, the investor may wish to turn this into student accommodation and will therefore need to buy around 5 months before the Universities start in September. 

When do terraced houses sell the best?

Terraced houses, much like flats, tend to sell best during January, February and September. The usual buyers for these homes include first time buyers, young couples, and property investors, particularly those interested in Buy To Let, property flipping or student accommodation.

One of the key reasons for this trend is the affordability of terraced homes compared to detached or semi-detached properties. Their lower price points make them particularly appealing to first-time buyers and young couples working within tighter budgets.

In January and February, many buyers are motivated by the idea of a fresh start in the new year. Buying early in the year allows them to complete the transaction and move in by spring, avoiding the logistical challenges of moving during the busy summer or holiday seasons.

In September, a similar pattern emerges. After returning from summer holidays, many young buyers are re-energised and keen to make a purchase before the year ends. They may also take advantage of properties that have been on the market for a while, offering below market value prices to secure a deal.

The best time to sell a 3 & 4 bedroom house

If you are selling a family home, then you will want to target ‘second steppers’ or families who are upgrading from their first home. The best time to sell family homes is outside of school holiday periods.

During school holidays, potential buyers with children are likely preoccupied with childcare and other family activities, making them less available for house hunting. Therefore, selling outside of these times could attract more interest from this demographic.

But, May or September may be the best month for selling a larger house, especially if it’s a luxury property. This is because high-end luxury homes will need higher quality estate agent photography and would benefit if all the flora are in bloom.

Spring and Autumn also mean that you avoid major holiday seasons, the weather is mild and buyers are still too motivated to secure a property before the end of the year.

However, it’s also important to note that most potential buyers for luxury properties are not swayed by the normal challenges of the housing market like mortgage approval or family holidays. If someone in the luxury property market wants to buy a property, they will usually purchase it outright.

The best time to sell a bungalow?

If you are selling a bungalow, then you will want to target either elderly individuals looking to downsize, or investors looking to turn it into a Buy To Let. According to The Advisory, the best time to sell bungalows is during the warmer summer months, from June to September.

This is because bungalows are often popular with older buyers, such as retirees or couples whose families have flown the nest. The summer months provide more comfortable weather conditions for viewing properties, which is particularly appealing for this age group who may be less inclined to house hunt during colder, wetter seasons.

Selling a bungalow in the summer months also means that their gardens and outdoor spaces may be showcased to their fullest potential, enhancing the overall appeal of the property.

Sell your property fast for cash with us

Here at The Property Buying Company, it is always the best time to sell your house! We pride ourselves on guaranteeing quick, hassle-free house sales no matter what time of the year.

We only require one quick viewing to make sure that our cash offer is accurate and as we are a genuine cash buyer, once you have accepted our offer that is the amount you get in your bank in full!

We are also a member of the National Association of Property Buyers and The Property Ombudsman, as well as being rated excellent on Trustpilot, with over 1000 reviews, allowing you to feel safe in our hands.

So, if you are ready to sell your house regardless of the season, give us a call or fill in our online form for a free, no-obligation cash offer which we could have in your bank as soon as you choose…