WoW Home: Should I sell my house now or wait until summer?
If you’ve decided to sell, it’s essential to present your home in the best possible light, says Majella Galvin.
In the past, conventional wisdom suggested that spring and autumn were the prime times to sell. However, in today’s fast-paced digital world, property sells all year round.
With house-hunters receiving property alerts 24/7, browsing listings on their phones during work breaks, weekends, and even holidays, the idea of a ‘best season’ to sell is becoming outdated. Instead, the timing of your sale should be based on your personal circumstances and the type of property you have.
So, should you sell now or wait? Let’s explore the key factors to consider.
A home is more than just bricks and mortar - it needs to work for your lifestyle.
Ask yourself:
Do you need more space for a growing family?
Would you prefer a bigger garden or a quieter neighbourhood?
Are you closer to work, family, and amenities than you’d like to be?
If your home is no longer fulfilling your needs, then the best time to sell is now. There’s no reason to delay a move that will improve your quality of life.
Most sellers are also buyers. If you’re hoping to purchase a new property, having your current home on the market (or even sold) puts you in a stronger position. Many sellers won’t accept an offer from a buyer who still has a home to sell, so listing now rather than waiting could give you an advantage when your dream property becomes available.
A common concern among sellers is whether winter or early spring is a good time to sell. The truth is, the key factors that determine how quickly and successfully a property sells are pricing and marketing - not the season.
Here’s why listing now could work in your favour:
Less Competition: Many sellers wait until summer, meaning fewer properties on the market now. Less competition can make your home stand out to serious buyers.
Serious Buyers: Those looking at property during the winter/spring months are often highly motivated to move quickly.
Marketing Works Year-Round: With high-quality listings, professional photography, and digital exposure, your property can attract buyers regardless of the season.
If you’ve decided to sell, it’s essential to present your home in the best possible light.
Here’s how to get your property market-ready:
Your first step is to find out how much your property is worth. Knowing the value of your property will help you sort out your finances and plan your move.
Potential buyers need to imagine themselves living in your home. To achieve this, showcase as much counter and floor space as possible. Store away items you don’t use daily, remove excess furniture, and tidy key areas like the hallway, kitchen, and bathroom.
The exterior of your home is the first thing buyers see. Ensure your front garden is tidy, repaint the front door if needed, and clean communal areas if you live in an apartment.
Fix anything that might put off buyers, such as leaky taps, squeaky doors, or missing light bulbs. Tidy the garden, clean gutters, and eliminate any mould or damp stains.
A fresh coat of neutral paint, new tiling, or re-grouting can make your home look more inviting. Ensure ceilings are free from water stains and touch up any scuffed areas.
A garden is an extension of the home. Mow the lawn, weed flower beds, and add potted plants to make the space more inviting.
A clean, fresh-smelling home is essential for positive viewings. Consider professional cleaning, ensure kitchens and bathrooms sparkle, and air out the property to eliminate pet odours.
Maximise natural light by opening curtains and ensuring windows are clean. In winter, make sure all lights are on for a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Liaise with your solicitor early to prepare necessary documents, including title deeds, planning compliance certificates, and proof of tax payments. This will help streamline the sales process.
After preparing your home, you’ll be in the best position to attract buyers and secure a sale. The sales process should run smoothly now that all the fundamentals are in place.
The best time to sell isn’t dictated by the season - it’s when you are ready to move forward.
Majella Galvin is a Chartered Surveyor, Estate Agent and RICS ed Valuer at DNG Galvin Auctioneers, Bandon. She has been working in the property sector for over a decade and has built up a wealth of knowledge and experience of the property market throughout the years.
Majella is a member of the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.
See www.dnggalvin.ie
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