Why autumn is one of the most strategic times to list your home

As the countdown to Christmas begins, many homeowners assume it's too late to get their property on the market before the festive season. But in reality, autumn is one of the most strategic times to list your home.

With buyer demand still strong and the market active, listing now gives you a valuable head start before the seasonal slowdown. Here’s why acting early can make all the difference and how to get your home market-ready without the stress.

Why list now?

Time is of the essence

The average property sale takes around 25 weeks from listing to completion according to Zoopla*. Acting now gives you time to market your property ahead of the festive rush, attract buyers who are looking to place a serious offer, and progress through the legal steps without stress in the New Year.

Serious buyers are still looking

Autumn typically attracts motivated buyers who want to settle before the end of the year. These aren’t casual browsers - they’re ready to move and often have finances in place. Listing now means your home is seen by people who are actively searching and prepared to make decisions quickly.

Avoid the January bottleneck

Many sellers wait until the new year to list, leading to a surge of new properties hitting the market in January. By listing in autumn, your home stands out in a less crowded market, giving you a competitive edge and more visibility.

How to effectively prepare your home for sale

Book a valuation early

A professional valuation sets the tone for your sale. It helps you price competitively, understand your local market, and plan your timeline with confidence. Booking early also gives you time to make any small improvements that could boost your home's appeal.

Maximise kerb appeal

First impressions matter. Autumn’s rich colours offer a great opportunity to make your home feel warm and inviting. Tidy up the garden, sweep leaves, add seasonal or ornamental plants, and make sure your entrance is clean and well-lit. A welcoming exterior can make buyers feel at home before they even step inside.

Stage for comfort

Buyers are drawn to homes that feel cosy and well-maintained. Use soft lighting, warm textiles like throws and cushions, and subtle seasonal touches to create a space that feels like a retreat from the cold. Neutral tones help buyers imagine themselves living there, while a clean, uncluttered space makes rooms feel larger and more inviting.

Get your paperwork in order

Having your energy performance certificate (EPC), boiler service records, warranties, and other key documents ready can help avoid delays later in the process. It also shows buyers that your home is well cared for and that you're serious about selling.

Work with the right agent

A proactive estate agent like Goodfellows can help you market your home effectively and keep things moving toward a timely completion.

If you're thinking about selling, now is the time to act. By listing your home this autumn, you give yourself the best chance of secure a buyer before Christmas - and hitting the ground running in the New Year. 

Contact us today to book your free valuation and let’s get your property on the market while buyer interest is high. 

        *Source: Zoopla