September is traditionally one of the busiest times of the year for the property market.
Potential buyers have returned from their Summer holidays (or staycations) and children have mostly returned to school.
Whilst it's a common conception that Spring is the best time to sell, September is also a great time to put your home on the market.
With buyer demand at an all-time high, property prices in Gloucester have risen by 7% in the last 12 months; whilst in Stroud prices have risen by 13%; in Cheltenham by 12% and in Worcester property prices have risen by 9%.
If you’re thinking of selling, we've put together our top 3 reasons why September, in particular, is a good time to put your home on the market, as well as 5 tips to make sure your home is inviting to prospective buyers.
Homebuyers want to move in before Christmas
With the Summer holidays over and children back at school, potential buyers looking to move before Christmas have more time to view homes and give it their full attention. With Christmas just a few months away, most buyers are determined to move into their new home ready for the big day.
Focus on school applications
Moving to be in the right catchment area for primary school applications can be another motivation for homebuyers to move before the New Year. Families with young children will want to be settled into their new address in time for deadlines at the end of January, meaning they’ll be most actively looking for their new home in September.
Homes look great in Autumn light
Meanwhile, from the seller’s point of view, we often experience an Indian Summer in September, which can make homes look brighter and much of the garden is still in bloom. Evenings stay light until early October, which makes viewings easier to arrange too. As well as this, if you put your home on the market in September, it’s likely that there will be fewer other properties for sale at that time. This means less competition and gives you a bigger pool of buyers, interested in purchasing your home.
Tips for selling your home in Autumn
So what can you do to ensure your home looks its best to attract prospective buyers? Here’s our 5 top tips for selling in September and throughout the Autumn months.
Dress your home for Autumn
Focus on selling the type of lifestyle your home has to offer, so that your viewers can imagine themselves living there. Think about the best way to bring the season indoors and create a warm and cosy atmosphere. Use dark red and burnt orange accessories such as cushions, throws and candles to subtly suggest Autumn life.
Get your lighting right
Bring more light into your living rooms and bedrooms room by introducing a couple of table lamps. Kitchens and bathrooms can be transformed by simply switching to daylight bulbs. Keep in mind, that nothing beats natural light, so pull the curtains open wide, roll up the blinds, and let the light flood in.
Maintain the garden
During the summer months, we can’t wait to go outside and tend to our gardens. However, it’s important to maintain your garden throughout the year if you’re thinking of selling. More than ever before, a good garden is a great selling feature.
Air the property
Let some fresh air into your home before viewers visit, especially if your property is empty.
Declutter
The change of season has probably seen your shoe pile grow, so put away your summer sandals, as well as sports equipment and picnic blankets. In the garden, tidy away any games, paddling pools and unused furniture. Generally, declutter your home and remove anything summery.
If you’re looking to sell your home this September, request a free, no-obligation valuation of your property from our team in your local branch. We can help to sell your home quickly and for the best possible price.
