One of the most considered questions about selling your house is, when is it the best time to put it on the market?

Traditionally, in Scotland the usual peaks are in the Spring and Autumn but are these really the best times to sell? Opinions are divided. Let’s look at some of the pros and cons.

December

Some Estate Agents say December is a great time to put your property on the market. There’s less competition, meaning your home isn’t lost in the masses, it gives you time to suss out the market, gauge interest and make adjustments to the price before higher demand kicks in in January.

Others actively discourage it as buyers are interested in how long your property has been for sale – they always want to see new additions to the property portals and will question why yours is still around if it’s been on for a number of weeks. They would suggest waiting until the New Year if you can.

New Year

Maybe you’re thinking New Year, new home. There’s a common belief that once Christmas is behind us and the days start to get longer, it’s time to put your house on the market. In looking ahead to the year, we plan where we want to be living and strive to keep our resolutions by making big changes in our lives. Competition will start to pick up but there will also be more people looking to buy so it seems like a good idea. Others are of the view that waiting until the spring time is a better plan as the market starts to properly pick up.

Spring time

The most popular time for house sales in Scotland is spring time when people are more likely to be at home before the summer holidays start. With the weather (hopefully) improving, your garden will look more attractive and there will be more daylight hours for viewings. But with this being the most popular time, buyers will have more choice, so will be more discerning.

Autumn

It can be a good time to sell, post summer holidays with enough time to sell and move before the slow down begins. It’s a popular time for both selling and buying with the weather still quite good and those wanting to move before Christmas coming into the market.

So, when is the best time?

There’s no correct answer. As always, what works for one, doesn’t always suit another. In addition to the season, many other factors have an influence – the type of property, the location and the competition from similar properties also on the market. It can also depend on demand in your area and which Estate Agent you choose to market your property for you. There’s also your own situation. The triggers for moving are changes in relationship status, growing families and new jobs and these events happen all year round!

Before you make any decision, it is advisable to have a chat with your chosen Estate Agent who will know the market, what buyers are looking for and what is selling well. They will be able to advise you when would be a good time to sell taking your circumstances into consideration and those of the market.