One of the most common questions we’re asked by homeowners in North London is whether there’s a “best” time of year to put a property on the market. The short answer is: there are stronger and quieter months – but the right timing always depends on your circumstances and your local market. Understanding how buyer behaviour changes throughout the year can help you choose the moment that gives your property the best chance of attracting interest, securing viewings and achieving a successful sale.

What’s Happened in the Housing Market So Far This Year?

• The start of 2026 has been encouraging for sellers. Average asking prices rose by 2.8% in January 2026, the largest January increase on record
• Property sales for 2025 finished 3% higher than 2024, despite a quieter second half caused by Autumn Budget uncertainty
• This year’s Boxing Day Bounce saw property portal visits jump 93% compared to Christmas Day, signalling strong early-year intent from buyers
• Looking ahead to 2026, first-time buyers are in a stronger position thanks to more choice, improving affordability and lower mortgage rates than in 2025
• Asking prices are forecast to rise by around 2% over the course of 2026, with activity levels closer to the upbeat first half of last year

While national trends provide useful context, North London often behaves slightly differently, with demand patterns varying by neighbourhood, property type and price bracket.

How Do I Know If It’s the Right Time to Sell?

Before looking at the calendar, it’s important to consider whether the timing works for you. Selling a home takes preparation, emotional energy and admin, so personal circumstances should always come first.

That said, timing your sale when local house prices are rising or when buyer demand is strongest can be financially advantageous. If the market feels subdued and maximising price is a priority, some sellers choose to wait for conditions to improve.

Keeping an eye on sold prices for similar homes in your area – and speaking to a local agent – will give you the clearest picture of how quickly homes are selling and what buyers are currently prioritising.

Selling a Home in the New Year

January is a surprisingly strong month to list. Many buyers begin their search with a “new year, new home” mindset, and online activity typically jumps after the Christmas break.

Our research shows that January and February are among the quickest months for achieving a sale, though some buyers at this time are still in the early stages of their search. This can mean slightly longer decision-making, but strong levels of enquiry.

Selling a Home in Spring

Spring is traditionally the busiest and most competitive season in the housing market.

Our 2025 research found that February and March were the strongest months to list, with 66.3% of homes listed during this period going on to complete – a higher-than-average success rate. Longer daylight hours, improved kerb appeal and better-looking gardens all help homes show at their best. Easter bank holidays also give buyers more flexibility to view and make decisions. For family homes and garden flats in North London, spring can be particularly effective.

Selling a Home in Summer

Summer often brings a slight slowdown, as holidays and school breaks take priority. That said, there are still advantages. Buyer competition can be lower, meaning serious purchasers stand out more clearly. Homes with outdoor space – balconies, terraces and gardens – often perform well, and longer evenings make after-work viewings easier.

For sellers targeting families keen to move before the new school year, summer can still be a productive window.

Selling a Home in Autumn

Autumn, particularly September and early October, is another strong period. Buyers return from holidays refocused, children are back at school, and many movers aim to complete before Christmas. We often see a post-summer uplift in asking prices, making early autumn a good time to re-enter the market, especially for well-presented homes.

Selling a Home in Winter

November and December are typically quieter months. Shorter days, festive distractions and fewer new buyers mean activity slows. However, this can work in a seller’s favour. With less competition, winter listings often attract more committed buyers. Thoughtful presentation is key: scheduling viewings during daylight hours, good lighting, and creating a warm, welcoming feel can make a significant difference.

What Is the Worst Month to Sell a House?

Historically, November and December tend to have the longest lead times from listing to completion. Fewer buyers are actively searching, and chains can move more slowly.

That said, successful sales still happen year-round – especially when pricing is realistic and the marketing strategy is well considered.

Selling Your House: FAQs

 

1. What makes a home sell quicker?

Local market conditions play a major role, but realistic pricing from the outset is crucial. Monitoring recent sold prices – not just asking prices – helps set expectations. Presentation also matters: decluttering, addressing minor defects and strong photography all improve first impressions.

2. Should I put my house on the market before looking for my next home?

In most cases, yes. Being a proceedable buyer strengthens your position when making an offer and gives you clarity on your budget.

3. Do different property types sell quicker?

They can do. In North London, demand may be stronger at certain times of year depending on property type – for example, family houses in spring or one- and two-bed flats during periods of improved first-time buyer affordability.

4. How long does it take to sell a house?
In 2025, average selling times ranged between 59 and 77 days, though this varies depending on chains, buyer circumstances and market conditions.

5. So, Is There a “Best” Month?

While February and March consistently perform well, the best time to sell ultimately depends on your goals, your property and what’s happening locally. Understanding seasonal trends can help, but tailored advice makes all the difference. For personalised guidance, speak to Davies and Davies – your local North London experts – and arrange a free valuation to discuss the right strategy for your home.

Contact us:

mark@daviesdavies.co.uk – Sales Director (contact for sales, lettings and new homes)

katrina@daviesdavies.co.uk – Director of Property & Block Management (contact for property and block management)

Davies & Davies Estate Agents, 85 Stroud Green Road, London, N4 3EG

Article & images by Barefaced Studios

You might also want to read other useful blog articles by clicking here.

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