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As the year winds down, many homeowners begin planning for the next big step: selling their home. Year after year, Boxing Day is touted as the busiest day for web traffic on property sites like Rightmove and Zoopla, with thousands of people logging on to browse homes. But is it really the best time to list your property? Let’s dive a bit deeper into the Boxing Day effect and see if this timing is the right choice for your unique home sale.
Does Boxing Day Traffic Equal Quality Buyers?
Boxing Day indeed drives more online traffic than any other day of the year on sites like Rightmove. However, it’s worth questioning the quality of those views. Many browsers are simply indulging in a Boxing Day tradition, scrolling through properties out of curiosity rather than readiness to buy. While it’s great exposure, it’s wise to consider how many of those viewers are genuinely motivated to purchase — and whether they’re prepared to venture out for viewings over the festive period.
The Law of Supply and Demand
While the Boxing Day boom can generate interest, it’s also one of the busiest days for new listings. This influx of properties means that if your home goes live on Boxing Day, it will be competing with hundreds of others, potentially diluting the impact of your listing. Listing at a less crowded time could make your home stand out in a more focused marketplace, ensuring that it captures the attention of every serious buyer actively searching.
However, if your property has unique features that make it truly distinctive, a Boxing Day launch might be advantageous, as it could catch the eye of buyers who hadn’t initially planned to start viewing homes. A special property with great appeal can benefit from the sheer volume of holiday browsers, providing a jumpstart on viewings.
What About Blue Monday?
January can be a slower time for house sales. The first few weeks are often quiet, with many potential buyers waiting until later in the month to seriously start their home search. The third Monday in January, known as “Blue Monday,” can be especially quiet for sales activity. By listing on Boxing Day, you risk having your property sit on the market through this slower period, potentially diminishing its early appeal and adding unnecessary time to your listing.
A Boxing Day Launch Can Capture Buyers’ Reflections
While Boxing Day listings may face competition, there’s also a unique advantage to listing during the festive season. Christmas is often a time of reflection, with many families realising they may need more space, less space, or a fresh start. This makes Boxing Day a powerful opportunity to reach a motivated segment of potential buyers who are considering life changes and are genuinely interested in planning a move.
The Verdict
Should you list on Boxing Day, or is there a better time? It all comes down to what’s right for your specific property and goals. Boxing Day can offer a head start on the new year’s housing market, but for some properties, a bespoke launch campaign might be more effective. By listing at a time when the market is less saturated, you allow your home to shine and capture the attention of committed buyers.
When is the Best Time to List?
Every home and seller’s situation is different. At Hern & Crabtree, our experienced team offers tailored advice to help you make the best choice for your property. If you’re considering selling, reach out to us for a free valuation and guidance on finding the optimal time to list. The perfect buyer could be closer than you think — let us help you make your dream move happen.
Contact Hern & Crabtree today for expert advice on selling your home.