Autumn is a key time for the property market – after the summer lull, many people return from their holidays and start thinking about moving. House prices are increasing, with prices up by 2.8% in the South East when compared with 2024. So, if you’re considering your own move, now’s the perfect time to act. Plus, we can help you do so without having to compromise on what you want.
Buyers are back from their summer holidays
…and they’re focused on what they really want. The kids are back in school, and buyers now have the time and headspace to think seriously about a move. Autumn buyers often come armed with clear priorities – and clear non-negotiables.
Data from Zoopla shows that buyer demand is up 4% compared with last year, and sales agreed are 5% higher. More homes coming onto the market means more choice, and more buyers actively searching with clear priorities in mind means your property is more likely to be seen and snapped up quickly.
The Christmas countdown effect
Lots of buyers set themselves the goal of being settled into a new home by Christmas. Maybe they want to host family, maybe they just want to start the new year fresh.
Whatever the reason, this often means quicker decisions and stronger offers. Because when buyers have a firm deadline, they’re also more decisive about what they will and won’t compromise on – making it easier to sort the casual browsers from those who see your home as their perfect fit.
Putting your house on the market in September or October can result in a speedier sale than at other times of the year – 62 days on average, according to the HomeOwners Alliance. So, if you want to move before Christmas, listing your home now gives you just the right amount of time to make it happen.
A cosy home = your autumn selling point
Warm, inviting, cosy interiors are strong selling features – especially with a luxury scent from a few candles added to the mix. Think living rooms with cushions and throws, warm lighting, fireplaces or log burners, and family-friendly spaces.
Autumnal views prove enticing too – softer light and gold foliage flatter your home, making it look even more welcoming in photos and when prospective buyers come for viewings.
Mortgage shifts boost confidence
With the Bank of England recently trimming the base rate from 4.25% to 4% – its lowest in more than two years – buyers may find borrowing that little bit more manageable. Even small shifts like this can make a noticeable difference to monthly repayments, boosting confidence and encouraging people to act now rather than wait.
When finance feels more achievable, buyers can focus on finding homes that truly match their wish lists rather than settling for less.
Our ‘non-negotiables’ approach
Of course, all this positive market activity only matters if you can find a buyer who values what makes your home special – and if you can find your next perfect home too.
So, here’s where we make the difference: we listen to what matters most to you – we discover your non-negotiables. We take the time to understand what you’re looking for in your new home that you just won’t compromise on. In fact, we encourage it!
For one of our customers, Stephanie, she had 3 non-negotiables: A kitchen island for Sunday afternoon baking sessions, a garden where Humphrey the pup could play fetch to his heart’s content, and a bedroom big enough to fit her son’s cabin bed into – and plenty of space for Harry’s toybox too. And we’re proud to say mission was accomplished.
We don’t just show you properties that might fit your criteria; we learn your absolute must-haves, and then we go out and find the home that ticks all your boxes. With our in-depth local knowledge and decades of combined experience in the Sussex property market, we guarantee a personalised service tailored to meet your specific needs.
Start your autumn move
Make the most of the autumn property market bump – tell us your non-negotiables and what really matters to you, and we’ll get to work.
Perhaps it’s a garage big enough for a car and all of hubby’s golf clubs? A fireplace where the cat has a toasty spot for a snooze? Or close to the station so you’re home in time for a bedtime story?
Whatever your non-negotiables are, we’ll let you know what your property is worth and help you find your next dream home – without compromise. Get in touch for your free valuation today.