How to Move and Sell Your Home in Time for Christmas 2024: A Practical Guide

The thought of celebrating Christmas in a new home is exciting, but the process of selling your current home and moving can be daunting. If you're planning to be settled into somewhere new by Christmas 2024, now is the time to get started.

Here’s our practical guide with tips to help you make the move as smooth as possible, ensuring you’re sipping mulled wine by the fireplace in your new home come December.

1. Start Early: Plan Backwards from December

• Timeline Planning: To be in your new home by Christmas, aim to complete the sale and move ideally by late November or early December. The average property sale in the UK takes 16 to 20 weeks from listing to completion, so work backwards from your target move date.
• List your Home Now: Ideally, you should have your property on the market by September. This allows enough time for viewings, offers, and the conveyancing process.

2. Prep Your Home for Sale

• Declutter: Start by decluttering your home. Potential buyers need to envision themselves in your space, and a tidy, organised home makes that easier.
• Minor Repairs: Fix any minor issues like leaky taps, squeaky doors, or cracked tiles. Small repairs can make a big difference in the perception of your home’s condition.
• Home Staging: If you are short on time you could consider hiring a professional to stage your home. Or even book in a deep clean or hire a decorate to pop on a fresh coat of paint in areas that are looking tired. A well-presented home often sells faster and for a better price.

3. Choose the Right Estate Agent

• Research and Compare: Look for estate agents with a strong track record of selling homes like yours in your area. Check reviews, and ask for recommendations.
• Valuation: Get a valuation to ensure you’re pricing your home correctly. Overpricing can lead to your home sitting on the market for too long.
• Marketing Strategy: Ensure your agent has a solid marketing plan. High-quality photos, virtual tours, and online listings on major property portals are essential.

4. Be Prepared for Viewings

• Flexible Schedule: Be as flexible as possible with viewings. The more people who see your home, the higher the chance of receiving offers.
• First Impressions: If possible, keep your home clean and presentable. Fresh flowers, a tidy garden, and a welcoming scent can make a big difference.

5. Get Your Finances in Order

• Mortgage Approval: If you’re buying a new home, get your mortgage pre-approved. This shows sellers you’re serious and can move quickly, which could give you an edge in negotiations.
• Budget for Costs: Selling and moving involves costs such as legal fees, moving costs, and potential stamp duty. Make sure you have a clear understanding of these expenses and budget accordingly.

6. Hire a Good Solicitor

• Conveyancing Process: The legal process of transferring ownership can be a bottleneck. A good solicitor who communicates well and works efficiently can significantly speed up this process. A local Estate Agent will often be able to recommend a company that they know are good.
• Paperwork: Start gathering all necessary documents early, including title deeds, warranties, planning permissions, and building regulation approvals. This will help avoid delays later.

7. Be Open to Negotiation

• Consider All Offers: If you receive a lower offer, weigh it against the time you have left. Sometimes accepting a slightly lower offer can be worth it to ensure a quicker sale.
• Chain-Free Options: If possible, consider selling to a chain-free buyer or becoming chain-free yourself. Chains can delay the process, breaking one can make your move smoother.

8. Plan Your Move

• Book Early: Removal companies get booked up quickly, especially as Christmas approaches. Book your moving company as soon as you have a completion date.
• Declutter Again: Moving is an ideal time to declutter further. Sell, donate, or dispose of items you don’t need in your new home.
• Utilities and Address Changes: Don’t forget to arrange the transfer of utilities, and notify relevant parties of your change of address well in advance.

9. Prepare for the Unexpected

• Be Ready for Delays: The property market can be unpredictable. Have a contingency plan in case things don’t go as smoothly as anticipated.
• Stay in Communication: Keep in regular contact with your estate agent and solicitor to stay updated on progress and address any issues quickly.

10. Enjoy the Process

• Stay Positive: Moving house can be a tricky time, but it’s also the start of a new chapter. Keep the end goal in sight—a cosy Christmas in your new home—and try to enjoy the journey.

Final Thoughts

Selling your home and moving before Christmas 2024 is achievable with careful planning and the right mindset and of course an experienced and supportive Estate Agent on your side too. Start early, stay organised, and be flexible.

If this is part of your plan, please get in touch with our experienced team so they can help you through this process.