Why January is One of the Best Months to Sell your House

December 20, 2022

Believe it or not, if you are looking for a quick sale, January is actually one of the best months to sell your home.

Data from the HomeOwners Alliance found that properties listed in January now take an average of 60 days to sell over the last seven years. This ranges from 51 to 75 days (with the 75 being a bit of an outlier, the next highest was 63!).

According to the research, average selling times start to creep up as you get later in year with home listed in the early summer months taking an extra week to sell.

While a lot of people may not be keen on moving home straight after a busy Christmas, there are reasons for this January burst:

Pent Up Demand

Many sellers and agents actively avoid listing homes through November and December, most people are busy thinking of the Christmas holidays and there is less interest during the darker and quieter winter months.

Perfect Timing for Schools

Moving in January is the perfect time for families looking to move into school catchment areas ready for their little (or big) ones to go to a new school in September.

New Year Resolutions

January isn’t just for unused gym memberships! Over the Christmas break a lot of people have a chance to sit down and think about where they are and what they want. Add in the spare time to browse property sites and you have a good combination for sellers!

Relocation for Work

Potentially in line with New Year resolutions, January is also the busiest time of the year for employee redistribution and staff changes. With the rise of flexible of working and fully work from home positions, many more properties can benefit from people moving for work.

Less Competition in January

Despite these reasons, there are always less houses listed in January compared to the summer months, so listing now makes it easier for your home to stand out among the competition.

This is especially true if your property can showcase its appeal in the cold and dreary British winter. Bright staging, cosy rooms, and a good EPC rating, if your home is attractive in the winter, the buyers know it is only going to get better in the summer!

The Most Important Factor for a Smooth Sale is a Great Agent

No matter the month, the key to progressing your sale smoothly is to find a great agent. They will handle all your viewings and negotiations, ensuring that you get the price you want on the timescale you need. A great agent will also be with you after you accept an offer, chasing down solicitors and making sure that everyone in the chain is working to make sure that your sale goes through.

Luckily, as you are reading this blog, this part is easy!

As an award-winning one to one estate agency, we pride ourselves on our reliable and hassle-free service. With The Agent you work one-to-one with your local agent, from valuation right through to the completion of your sale. You can read more about our unique approach to estate agency and our selling process.

No matter where you are in the selling process feel free to get in touch to discuss your options, or when you are ready, you can book a free, no obligation valuation with your local expert today.

Peter Austin

Peter is a writer and photographer with a great interest in property, design, and the economy.

Phone:

03330 904071

Email:

sales@the-agent.uk