By Lindsay French, Partner
Registered Office
Dean Street Arch, 22 Dean Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1PG
Is Autumn the New Spring for Selling?.
When people think about selling their home, spring is often the season that comes to mind first.
For years, we’ve been told that longer days, blooming gardens and brighter weather create the perfect conditions for attracting buyers. While there’s certainly truth in that, it’s a misconception that spring is the only good time to move.
As we move into autumn, I’m having more conversations with homeowners who are surprised to learn just how active the market can be at this time of year. So, if you’ve been considering a move but think you’ve missed your window, the reality is that autumn can be one of the best times to bring a property to market.
One of the biggest advantages is that there’s often less competition.
Many sellers delay their plans until the new year, meaning fewer properties come onto the market during September, October and November. For buyers, that can mean less choice. For sellers, it can mean more eyes on their property and a greater chance of standing out.
At the same time, the buyers who are looking tend to be highly motivated. By autumn, we’re often dealing with people who have a clear reason for moving. They may be relocating for work, looking for more space, downsizing, or hoping to complete a purchase before Christmas. Whatever their motivation, they are generally serious about finding the right property and progressing with a move.
That’s an important distinction.
During the spring market, you can attract plenty of interest from people who are simply exploring their options. In autumn, many buyers are further along in their decision-making process and are ready to act when the right opportunity comes along.
Autumn also brings a different kind of appeal when it comes to presenting your home.
While spring brings fresh flowers and sunshine, autumn has a charm of its own. Gardens take on beautiful seasonal colours, while warm lighting, cosy rooms and inviting interiors can help buyers picture themselves at home. And let’s face it, here in the North, we spend much of our time indoors, so features such as wood-burning stoves, family kitchens and comfortable living areas can feel even more appealing as the evenings draw in.
This time of year also tends to encourage people to think about what’s next.
The return to routine after the summer holidays, combined with the approach of a new year, often prompts homeowners to reflect on whether their current property still meets their needs. For some, that means seeking more space. For others, it means considering downsizing, or moving closer to family, work or local amenities.
We’re continuing to see strong demand across many of the towns and villages we work in throughout the Northeast. Buyers remain drawn to locations that offer easy access to the countryside, quality schools and an appealing lifestyle. From period properties in market towns and family homes in villages to homes with more rural appeal, there are plenty of active buyers searching for the right opportunity.
Of course, every move is different, and there is never a universally “perfect” time to sell. Market conditions are only one piece of the puzzle. Your own circumstances, plans and objectives will always be the most important factors.
My advice to anyone considering a move is not to wait for a specific date in the calendar. Instead, take the opportunity to understand what your home is worth today and what options might be available to you.
You may find that autumn presents more opportunities than you expected.
If you’ve been asking yourself whether it’s time for a change, now could be the perfect moment to start the conversation.
