Avoiding the Summer Slowdown When Trying to Sell Your Home

If you’ve ever sold a house before, you’ll know that estate agents often talk in hushed tones about the summer slowdown. From the end of June until September, sales are often at the slowest, with only the Christmas period having such poor sales volume. Unfortunately, most sellers can’t simply decide to wait three whole months to put their property on the market, so they’ll still need to attempt to sell, so how can you still sell during the summer slump?

Price realistically

While there might not be a huge pool of potential buyers during the summer months, there are often people who would think of moving ‘if the right place came along’ and putting your home on the market at a realistic price can attract extra attention. Selling your house quickly is much easier if you’re realistic about what it’s worth and do your research. Yes, you may feel a sentimental attachment, and you may have spent money on improvements, but how much do you think a buyer will realistically pay? Look at similar properties in the area and consider knocking off a small amount to make the price more competitive.

Make your home more attractive

During the busier months, your home may sell with minimal effort, but if you sell during the summer you may need to put in more effort. Unless you’re selling a house for cash, with the understanding that it’s sold as seen or a fixer-upper, you’ll need to:

• Paint in neutral colours
• De-clutter
• Get an odd DIY jobs done
• Install newer appliances and upgrade your home

However, if you don’t want to do these things, or simply don’t have the time, there are options such as selling to a specialist home buyer. They will buy homes in any condition, so you can save time, and don’t have to go to the effort of sprucing up a home that you are leaving.

Improve your garden

When the weather is sunny and hot, people will be thinking about their home exteriors more than ever. Spend some time improving your kerb appeal by clearing your front path, washing windows and ensuring the entrance is tidy, and spend some time clearing your back garden to make it look more cheerful. Those who can’t spend lots of time on their garden could look at alternatives such as a 7-day house sale, which means you don’t have to put in lots of effort yet can get a quick sale and get moving.

Opt for early summer if possible

Early summer, before the school holidays, is generally the easiest time to sell. If you can stick your home on the market in June, you have a better chance of selling. If not, then be patient and flexible. Buyers may need to visit with children or at unusual times, or you may have to wait longer for decisions to be made, so may want to look at other options for selling.

When you need a quick house sale at any time of year, contact UK Home Buyers on our 24/7 phone line by calling 0800 051 7645. We can give you a quick offer and a sale in as little as seven days.