Those looking to sell their home before Christmas have until 23 October to put their house on the market, research has found.
According to data from HomeOwners Alliance, the time to sell a property in 2024 is estimated at around 67 days, which is higher than the nine-year average of 59 days.
The trade body said that, using the nine-year average of 59 days, homeowners need to list no later than 23 October if they want to sell by the last Friday before Christmas.
Figures show that the yearly average for the number of days taken to sell a house has varied significantly since the pandemic, standing at 69 days in 2019 and rising to a high of 73 in 2020.
The average number of days taken to sell a property fell to 52 in 2021, then to a low of 39 before jumping to 58 days in 2023.
Paula Higgins, chief executive of HomeOwners Alliance – which hosts the Best Estate Agent Finder tool – said: “With the wintry weather blowing in and shorter days already, it’s only a matter of time before thoughts turn to Christmas planning. If you have moving house on your 2024 to-do list, then there is still time.
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“Invite three of the best local estate agents to value your property, check out their performance and reviews and carefully read the terms of their contract. When you’ve selected your favourite, instruct them to list your home on the main property portals before the 23 October to be in with a chance of selling before Christmas.”
The HomeOwners Alliance recommended that home sellers find a great estate agent, check the terms of the estate agent contract carefully before signing, instruct a conveyancing solicitor early and get the house ready for sale.
