The Race to the Finish is ON

I’m semi-horrified that we have reached December of 2023. Much in the same vein as when you distinctly remember yourself as being 25 and that everyone born after the year 2000 is definitely still in primary school, it feels like time has once again run away from us all and a new year (and additional grey hairs) are creeping ever closer.

For property, the next 2 weeks are going to be a whirlwind, as we see the last few properties sneak onto the market with just enough time to secure a contract before Christmas, though all but a very lucky few with cash in the bank have likely missed the chance to settle in 2023. Given the constraints of the holiday season and solicitors, banks and yes, real estate agencies shutting up shop between the 22^nd and 2^nd, the pressure really is on.

One of the biggest decisions for prospective sellers to make will be whether to launch now with a tight timeframe ahead, or put things in the drawer and dust them off in January as everyone returns to work. If you’re set on an auction or other time based campaign you’ve probably missed the boat to do it effectively if you haven’t kicked off yet, though private treaty (with a price) still has legs to do so.

Home owners looking to make their selling move prior to Christmas will have the advantage of buyer focus, with more flexibility among buyers on holidays compared to the normal working year. This may involve the extended family tagging along though so be prepared for small children and curious in-laws to join the fray. When it comes to presentation, expect a lot of time spent in the yard with a hose to combat the current dry weather, and do your best to sneak photography in BEFORE the Christmas decorations go up. Though if its anything like my house, it might be several weeks too late for that…

Properties already on the market, whether fresh or with a bit more time spent on the shelf are also likely to see a greater flurry of interest in this time, as buyers look to at least make a decision before the end of the year. The calendar changing over tends to be seen as a real bookend and it can be a great time to be at the negotiating table as everyone is motivated to have things put to bed, ready to relax over the holidays rather than stressing from one side or the other.