As the spring season approaches, homeowners across the country are gearing up to list their properties for sale, hoping to capitalize on the optimal selling months of February and March. According to a recent analysis by property website Rightmove, these two months have consistently shown the highest success rates for completed transactions, with approximately two in every three homes listed during this period going on to sell successfully since 2012.
The data collected by Rightmove, which examined millions of properties listed for sale over the years, excluding the anomalous year of 2020 due to the disruptive effects of the pandemic, revealed some intriguing insights into the real estate market’s seasonal trends. Not only do February and March boast the highest likelihood of completing a sale, but they also share the joint quickest time to find a buyer historically, with a typical home taking an average of 51 days to secure a buyer in these months.
However, the analysis also shed light on the runners-up in the race to the top, highlighting April and January as closely following behind February and March in terms of favorable selling months. On the flip side, December emerged as the least optimal month to list a home, with only 61.7% of properties listed during this festive season going on to complete a sale, likely due to the distractions of the holiday season.
The surge in buyer activity in the early months of the year, as noted by Rightmove, signals a promising start to the spring selling season. With an 8% increase in potential buyers contacting agents about available properties and a 15% rise in the number of sales being agreed upon compared to the same period last year, the stage is set for a robust market in the upcoming months.
One key factor that sellers should keep in mind, emphasized by industry experts like Ben Hudson, managing director at Hudson Moody in York, is the importance of presenting their homes in the best possible light. From decluttering and addressing any visible defects to enhancing curb appeal with a well-maintained exterior, these small touches can significantly impact a buyer’s first impression of the property.
Hudson further advises sellers to pay attention to details such as lighting, heating, and overall cleanliness to create a welcoming atmosphere during viewings, ensuring that potential buyers leave with a positive impression of the home. By focusing on these aspects, homeowners can increase their chances of a successful sale and attract more interested buyers.
Moving beyond the seasonal trends and expert advice, Rightmove’s data also provides valuable insights into the average percentages of homes completing a sale and the corresponding number of days to find a buyer across different months. From January through December, each month presents varying success rates and timelines for selling a property, offering sellers a comprehensive overview of the market dynamics throughout the year.
In addition to the regional variations in selling trends, such as those observed in London, where house prices have fluctuated over the past year, understanding the broader market dynamics can help sellers make informed decisions about when to list their properties and how to maximize their chances of a successful sale.
With the spring selling season on the horizon and buyer activity on the rise, sellers have a prime opportunity to showcase their properties and attract potential buyers during the optimal months of February and March. By leveraging expert advice, market insights, and a strategic approach to property presentation, homeowners can navigate the real estate landscape with confidence and increase their chances of a successful sale.
As homeowners prepare to list their properties for sale this spring, the data and guidance provided by industry experts like Rightmove and Ben Hudson offer valuable insights into the best practices for selling a home and maximizing its potential in a competitive market. By aligning their strategies with the seasonal trends and expert recommendations, sellers can position their properties for success and achieve their desired outcomes in the real estate market.
