Clear the Space, Clear the Mind
Before viewings, take the time to declutter. Too many belongings can make a home feel smaller and distract buyers from what they’re really there to see, the property itself. Think about packing away items you don’t need every day. It’s not only preparing your home for sale, but also giving you a head start on your move.
First Impressions Start Outside
Buyers often make their decision within moments of arriving. Freshen up the front of your home by mowing the lawn, cleaning pathways, or adding a plant or two near the entrance. These small touches help create a warm welcome before they’ve even stepped inside.
Light and Freshness Are Your Best Friends
Natural light instantly makes a home feel bigger and more inviting. Open curtains, clean your windows, and use mirrors to reflect light into darker corners. A light, fresh-smelling home is always more appealing, so keep the air flowing and consider a subtle scent like fresh linen or citrus.
Make Each Room Feel Purposeful
Give every room a clear role. If you have a spare bedroom that’s become a bit of a dumping ground, tidy it up and show it as a proper bedroom, office, or reading nook. Buyers love to see how each space can be used—it helps them imagine living there themselves.
Take Care of the Little Things
Loose handles, squeaky doors, or chipped paint might seem small, but they can give the impression a home isn’t well looked after. Spending a little time on these finishing touches shows buyers the house has been cared for and loved.
"How can I decorate my home for Christmas while still appealing to buyers?"
I’ll let you in on a little secret… Christmas is actually a fantastic time to sell your home.
“Really?” I hear you say, but yes, and here’s why.
Many homeowners assume that listing their property during the festive season is a disadvantage. However, the data suggests otherwise. The period between Christmas and the New Year can be an opportune time to enter the market.
Record-Breaking Activity in Early 2025
Surge in New Listings: Since Boxing Day 2024, the number of new properties coming to market has increased by 11% compared to the same period last year, providing buyers with the highest level of choice at the start of the year since 2015.
Rising Buyer Interest: Buyer enquiries to estate agents have risen by 9% since Boxing Day, indicating strong demand.
Increase in Sales Agreed: The number of sales agreed has jumped by 11% over the same period, suggesting that many buyers are eager to move quickly.
Early 2025 Market Momentum
Mortgage Applications: Rightmove has recorded its busiest start to a year for Mortgage In Principle applications, indicating strong buyer intent.
Price Trends: The average asking price for a property in January 2025 was £366,189, marking a 1.7% increase from December 2024.
These developments suggest a dynamic start to 2025 for the UK housing market, with increased activity from both sellers and buyers. Potential sellers looking to capitalize on this momentum should consider listing their properties early in the year to align with the heightened buyer interest.
Photography
Buyers make decisions fast, in fact, most spend just a few seconds scrolling through online listings before moving on. That’s why your photos need to capture attention instantly. Always have your professional images taken before the decorations go up. While fairy lights and Christmas trees look lovely in December, they’ll make your photos feel outdated come January.