Homeowners looking to sell properties could benefit from a festive frenzy if they list their homes before Christmas, according to a leading property expert.
Market data analysed by property specialists Bradley Hall shows that the post-Christmas weeks are now some of the most popular for buyers seeking their dream home.
The prediction follows Rightmove’s revelation that the online property portal reported over 52 million views between Boxing Day and the first working day of 2021.
The flurry in visitors, which represents a 54% increase on the previous year, also reflected Bradley Hall’s own experience, with the firm reporting a 38% rise in website traffic during the same period.
British families spend more time at home during the winter months than any other time of the year and with home working rates now higher than ever before, Bradley Hall experts believe this winter could encourage a further rise for sellers.
“People are far more focused on the “how and where” they live in the wake of the pandemic and we have seen this first-hand,” said Matt Hoy, managing director of residential at Bradley Hall.
“The rise of home working and realisation that a happy home is key to a more fulfilling life has led to people taking more pride in their homes, so it’s no surprise that the period when we spend the most time at home is fast becoming the period when people begin looking for something better.
“Traditionally, Boxing Day sales have been associated with retail sales. However, there’s no reason why, given the data released by both Bradley Hall and Rightmove, it can’t also become one of the most popular times to buy and sell a home.”
Speaking in the wake of last year’s festive period, Rightmove property expert, Tim Bannister, said: “We see a surge in people searching for property from Boxing Day onwards, perhaps with a resolve to enjoy their next Christmas in new surroundings. Some of those buyers will also be sellers who have held back, judging this period to be a good time to move.”
Another benefit of listing a property prior Boxing Day according to Matt, is that it immediately precedes the “new year, new home” mentality when serious buyers enter the market once all the festivities are out of the way.
He added: “We have many clients who chose to list on or around boxing day to capitalize on the increased online traffic and our offices are open during the festive break to field any enquiries that come in.”
“It is a bit of an odd period though in that not every estate agency is open, and people might assume that viewings aren’t available if vendors are spending the holiday period away or with family. Strategically though it is a sensible time to list even if you don’t see a result from the days between Christmas and New Year, as your property will still appear as a recent listing in the busy new year.
Five properties that have recently hit the market and are already attracting attention…
Moor Edge, Durham
Seldom does a property as unique as this one come to the market especially one located in the popular residential location of Crossgate Moor. This spacious, five bedroom detached home is situated just off the A167 and providing excellent transport links throughout the area. The property is conveniently located for the University Hospital of North Durham, Durham Johnston and St Leonard’s Schools and several local primary schools.
https://www.bradleyhall.co.uk/residential-properties/moor-edge-durham/
Admiral Collingwood Court, Morpeth
This apartment is situated in the heart of the historic market town of Morpeth where a range of traditional shopping and national retailers can be found and schooling for all ages is available locally. Morpeth also offers many bars/restaurants, and leisure facilities. Transport needs are catered for by local buses and the A1 trunk road gives vehicle access to the region north and south and beyond. Morpeth also has a mainline rail station on the East Coast Line to Newcastle, Edinburgh, and London.
https://www.bradleyhall.co.uk/residential-properties/admiral-collingwood-court-morpeth/
Woodside, Ponteland
Situated within the prestigious and highly sought after Darras Hall estate, this wonderful five bedroom detached property will make the perfect family home. The home is conveniently located for easy access to Newcastle airport and the city centre, as well as a short walk to local schools; including Darras Hall primary school which has been awarded an Ofsted Outstanding grade.
https://www.bradleyhall.co.uk/residential-properties/woodside-ponteland/
Highgate House, Durham
It’s not often that a house of this calibre is offered to the market especially one which enjoys a city centre location whilst still being completely private and set within its own grounds. Highgate House sits on outstanding 0.7-acre plot with the added benefit of owning the adjoining woodland and is access from a private road.
https://www.bradleyhall.co.uk/residential-properties/highgate-house-durham/
Upper Lambton Farm, Bournmoor
As the name suggests Upper Lambton Farm was originally the farm steading to the old working farm which was part of the New Lambton Estate and backs onto open countryside being on the outskirts of the village. It is situated in what is now a quiet cul-de-sac made up of a development of around 10 exclusive ‘one off’ houses all individually designed and backing onto farmland on the outskirts of the village of Bournmoor.
https://www.bradleyhall.co.uk/residential-properties/upper-lambton-farm-bournmoor/
