When it comes to selling your home, timing can make a surprising difference. Market activity in the UK rises and falls throughout the year — influenced by weather, school holidays, and even the time of year people prefer to move.
So, what’s the hardest month to sell a house? And why does it matter? Let’s take a closer look.
While there can be exceptions, December is traditionally the toughest month to sell a house in the UK.
Here’s why:
As a result, fewer people are browsing property listings, meaning fewer viewings and less competition for your home.
To understand why December struggles, it helps to look at how property trends fluctuate throughout the year.
Spring is widely seen as the prime property season.
Homes listed in spring often sell faster and closer to their asking price.
Early summer can be good for selling, but once school holidays begin, activity tends to slow. Families are away on holiday or juggling childcare, which reduces buyer numbers.
After the summer lull, there’s usually a September surge. Buyers want to complete before Christmas, making early autumn another strong selling window.
Cold weather, shorter days, and festive distractions mean fewer viewings. January can see a small rebound, as “new year, new home” buyers start browsing — but the market rarely picks up speed until late February or early March.
Although December is statistically the hardest month to sell, that doesn’t mean you can’t sell successfully then — it just takes a smarter strategy.
Some buyers are more serious during winter, meaning fewer time-wasters. And with fewer properties on the market, your home may face less competition.
If you do need to sell in a quieter month, here are some tips to boost your chances.
Make your home feel cosy and inviting:
First impressions matter — and warmth can make buyers feel instantly at home.
Since winter days are darker, invest in professional photography or plan your shoot for the brightest part of the day.
Well-lit photos can make your property stand out online when competition is low.
In a quieter market, overpricing can turn buyers away.
Work with your estate agent to set a competitive, data-backed price to attract interest from the smaller pool of buyers.
If your home has energy-efficient features, great insulation, or a working fireplace — now’s the time to shout about them.
Winter buyers will be thinking about warmth, comfort, and running costs.
Shorter days can make viewings tricky. Be flexible with timing, and ensure outdoor areas are well lit and safe to access in darker evenings.
If you’re planning ahead, aim to list your property in early spring (March or April) or early autumn (September) for the best results.
These are the times when buyers are most active, and homes tend to sell faster and for stronger prices.
But if life circumstances mean you have to sell in winter — don’t worry. With the right presentation, pricing, and marketing, it’s still entirely possible to achieve a successful sale.
So, what is the hardest month to sell a house?
👉 December, without a doubt — thanks to festive distractions, shorter days, and fewer active buyers.
However, motivated sellers can still find success by planning carefully, presenting their home beautifully, and pricing strategically.
Remember: a well-prepared home sells in any market — even in December.
Key takeaway:
The best month to sell might be spring — but the best time to list your home is when you’re ready and prepared to make it shine.
