Let’s explore why now is the perfect time to make your move, and how you can maximise your chances of a successful sale.
When it comes to selling your home, timing can make a significant difference. Research from Rightmove reveals that February and March are historically the best months to enter the property market when selling your home. Here's why:
Rightmove’s 2025 research showed in these two months, 66.3% of homes listed went on to complete. *
This can be attributed to the longer daylight hours giving people more time to view and the motivation of people wanting to be in a new home in time for summer.
March and April were also identified as the months with a quicker-than-average time-to-sell.*
All this highlights that putting your property up for sale in early spring puts you in a strong position to get moving in 2026.
While seasonality can play a major part in when to sell, it’s also important to look at the market and other external factors at play. The current property market is showing encouraging signs for both buyers and sellers.
Despite uncertainty after the Autumn Budget at the end of 2025, we saw sales in December 3% higher than the same time in 2024.*
In January 2026, asking prices jumped by 2.8%, which was the biggest price increase ever seen in the month of January, which typically tends to be a slower month.*
We see promising change in the market as affordability continues to improve with strengthening wages and lower mortgage rates. This is offering opportunities to first-time buyers, with Rightmove predicting to see asking prices increase by 2% in 2026.*
All of which points towards now being a great time to move. So, how do you stage your home for selling to maximise success?
maximising your home’s appeal
To make the most of these favourable conditions, consider the following expert tips:
1. First impressions matter
Ensure your property's exterior is in top condition. Pay attention to:
Front garden maintenance
Driveway cleanliness
Exterior paintwork
Condition of the front door
2. Create a welcoming atmosphere
Remember that simple touches can make a big difference:
Add some fresh flowers to brighten rooms
Scented candles or diffusers will provide a fresh aroma
At this time of year, keep your home warm and cosy during viewings
3. Declutter effectively
Present your property as a blank canvas:
Invest in temporary storage solutions if needed
Ensure all personal items are tidied away for viewings and photographs
A clutter-free space appears larger and more appealing to potential buyers
4. Address minor issues
Do not let small problems derail your sale:
Fix any minor issues before viewings
Consider updating simple features that could enhance the property's appeal
5. Pet considerations
While we love our furry friends, they can be a distraction during viewings:
Arrange for pets to be out of the house during viewings
Ensure the property is free from pet hair and odours
For more tips on how to get ready for potential property viewings, read our blog here.
Working with a knowledgeable local estate agent can significantly impact your selling experience. A professional agent can:
Provide valuable insights into the local property market
Offer expert advice on pricing and marketing strategies
Help you navigate the complexities of the selling process
Assist in negotiating offers and handling paperwork
Balanced market conditions makes now an excellent time to consider selling your property. However, remember that while general trends are helpful, every property and situation is unique, which is why it’s important to work with a trusted local agent, who can help you position yourself for a successful sale.
Ready to take the next step? Call us today to discuss your property goals and how we can help you achieve them.
Sources:
*https://www.rightmove.co.uk/news/articles/property-news/best-time-to-sell/
**Rightmove HPI, January 2025
MKT/CG/UKON/100124
