The UK property market, renowned for its resilience and dynamism, is influenced by a myriad of factors. While economic indicators and market trends dominate discussions, the one factor that often remains underestimated is the weather which exerts a substantial influence. Deborah Richards, Managing Partner of Maddisons Residential in Tunbridge Wells, explains why.

Understanding how the seasons affect the property sales market

The Spring Market

Widely considered to be the best time to sell property, the spring market certainly has a lot going for it. People are beginning to drag themselves out of the doldrums of winter, the light is improving, and the odd flower begins to bloom.

However, with the spring market having such a reputation, the property market can quickly become swamped with sellers. If possible, try to get to market earlier in the season and avoid coming to market during the Easter holidays, especially if your ideal buyer has a family, as interest in sales will drop off around April. March and May are therefore better months to bring a family home to market in the UK.

The Summer Market

The  prevailing weather does still play its part in influencing the market. When the sun shines, we generally feel happier and open to the change and upheaval that a property move entails. 

If you have a large garden that is a real feature of your property, you will want to show it on a beautiful summer’s day!

The Autumn Market

You might expect that with colder weather and shorter daylight hours, Autumn would bring a slow down to the property market but the reality is, the few short months of this season can be very busy, as buyers renew their search after the summer holiday season, often to “be in” for Christmas.

The Winter Market

While the Winter Market is quieter than the other seasons, many people urge for a fresh start come January, and property purchasers are no different. Many will have all but given up in November and December, opting instead for Christmas shopping and time with family rather than looking at property. So, once the New Year arrives, they start again.

Opting to go to market in January can also see you take advantage of a new group of buyers who after the Christmas period decide they need more space having often spent time in their existing property with extra guests!.

It is also worth noting that Rightmove, one of the leading property portals, have changed the rules surrounding what constitutes a ‘new listing’.  Previously, you could take your property off the market over the festive period for two weeks and relist in the new year.  The property would then be considered a ‘new listing’.  You must now wait 14 weeks between taking your property off the market and putting it back on as a ‘new listing’ – all of which means that timing is more important than ever when listing a property during winter.

The weather still plays a vital role in the success of many property sales, and a good agent should consider our varied seasons when presenting their marketing strategy to you for achieving the best possible result. Call us for more property sales advice or if you would like us to help you list your property.