Why spring is the best time to sell your house and how to get that quick offer

Research has shown that the period from mid-February to the end of June is the best time to put your house on the market.

With the festive season over and the slowdown of summer still months away, spring is the time many people think about moving house.

Data collated by RightMove found that properties that come to market in March sell the fastest. The sooner your house is on the market, the more chance you’ll have to attract springtime buyers.

Attracting buyers

It’s worth putting in some work to showcase your home before you contact an agent.

Spend some serious time decluttering. Get rid of anything you don’t need and store as much as you can out of sight. This gives the illusion of more space and also means you’ll have less to pack when you move.

Aim for a bright and light feel. Cleaning and tidying really can make a huge difference here. Few properties are of show home standard, but if you can offer a clean, clutter free space then you will help potential buyers envisage themselves living there. New cushions, towels and a luxury throw or two will make a good impression, and can be taken with you.

The outside space

Don’t forget to make the best of whatever outside space you have.

Again, declutter and make sure any visible pots have live plants in. Spring is a good time to fill some containers with flowers. Put away children’s toys and bikes if possible and make sure the garage space is neat. The garage and any off-street parking will be good selling points and if they are clear and spacious the buyers will notice and appreciate them.

Pay particular attention to the front of your house, where potential buyers will have their first glimpse of your home.

Put a few hours into tidying the garden. Mow the lawn, trim the edges and clip hedges and bushes. Sweep the paths and patio and clean any glass, for example conservatory or summerhouse. The simple act of making sure everything is neat and sharp really does transform a garden.  

Choosing an estate agent

Once you’re happy that your home is looking its best, its time to choose an agent. Ask friends for recommendations and select an agency that deals with similar properties to yours and belongs to a professional body.

You should also make initial contact with a conveyancer so that you can give your agent their details. This will also allow them to give you any preliminary paperwork to make a start on, such as Property Information forms. Then as soon as you have an offer, you will be ready to go.