January is increasingly being identified as one of the most favourable months of the year to list a property as motivated buyers return to the market following the festive period and competition among sellers remains comparatively low.
Market analysts say the early weeks of the year often combine strong buyer intent with heightened online activity, creating a window of opportunity for vendors prepared to move quickly.
The New Year traditionally coincides with major lifestyle decision-making, including relocations, job changes and family moves, prompting many households to begin property searches in earnest.
Online portals routinely record a surge in traffic during the first weeks of January, while estate agents report sharp increases in registrations and viewing requests.
GREATER VISIBILITY
At the same time, supply levels typically remain below spring volumes, meaning sellers can benefit from greater visibility and less competition from neighbouring listings. Properties launched early in the year often stand out to buyers who have short-listed areas and price ranges over the Christmas break and are ready to progress.
Industry figures also note that winter activity can be more focused than the traditional spring bounce, with a higher proportion of committed buyers already financially prepared to proceed.
This can translate into faster decision-making and fewer speculative viewings compared with busier seasonal peaks.
STRATEGIC ADVANTAGE
Elliot Castle (main picture, inset), CEO of We Buy Any Home, reckons many sellers underestimate January’s potential because of the long-standing assumption that spring is the strongest selling season.
And he adds that buyers in the early New Year period are often “serious, purposeful and ready to act”, having spent the preceding months planning a move.
He says: “Listing before the spring rush means your property doesn’t get lost in a sea of new homes. Sellers often find that offers come through faster because the people out looking in January really mean business.”
Castle advised homeowners planning to sell to ensure properties are ready to launch as early as possible in the New Year, including removing seasonal decorations, decluttering and presenting a neutral space.
Homes that still appear overtly festive in listing photographs risk looking dated as weeks pass, potentially weakening buyer appeal.
