Planning to Move in Early 2026? Here’s When to List Your Home
If you’re hoping to move in the first half of 2026, now’s the perfect time to start preparing. The property market may feel a little quieter as winter approaches, but getting your timing right could make all the difference between moving in spring or waiting until summer.
Why Getting Ahead Matters
As we move through autumn 2025, many homeowners are starting to think about selling but holding off until the new year. It’s completely understandable — the festive season can be busy, and not everyone wants to think about viewings while the decorations are up.
However, if your goal is to move by spring 2026, waiting until January to get started could already put you behind.
On average, UK property transactions take around 14 to 18 weeks from “under offer” to completion — and that’s when everything runs smoothly. If you’d like to be unpacking boxes by March or April, your home ideally needs to be under offer before Christmas. That allows solicitors to begin the legal work in January, so things are already progressing as the market reawakens after the holidays.
Waiting until January to list often means completion won’t happen until late spring or early summer — particularly if you’re part of a chain.
The Benefits of Listing Before Christmas
Listing your property before the festive period comes with a few underrated advantages:
Serious buyers are still searching. Those looking in November and December tend to be motivated — often buyers who want to move quickly in the new year.
Your home will show beautifully. Autumn light is flattering, gardens still have colour, and your photos will look warm and inviting. By January, the winter gloom can make properties appear less vibrant online.
You’ll catch the Boxing Day bounce. Every year, online property searches surge between Christmas and New Year. Having your home listed before this peak can dramatically boost visibility and enquiries just as buyers start planning their moves for the year ahead.
Thinking of Moving in Spring or Summer 2026? Start Preparing Now.
If you’re planning to move a little later — perhaps between April and June — preparation now will still pay off. Early 2026 is expected to bring an uptick in listings, which means more competition for attention.
By arranging your valuation, photography, and marketing materials before the decorations go up, you’ll be ready to launch as soon as the market gains momentum in January. You’ll also avoid the post-holiday rush that often leaves sellers scrambling to get organised.
The 2025 market has been steady but price-sensitive. With mortgage rates softening slightly and affordability improving, buyers remain selective. That’s why sellers who are well-prepared, realistic on price, and proactive are the ones seeing the best results.
Plan Ahead with Confidence
The biggest advantage you can give yourself is time. By planning ahead, you set the pace — rather than letting the market dictate it.
If your goal is to move by spring or early summer 2026, start laying the groundwork now:
Arrange your property valuation
Gather key paperwork
Prepare your home for photography while the light is still good
Even if you’re not ready to list immediately, you’ll be in the perfect position to launch strategically before the January surge.
Talk to Moreland
At Moreland, we’ve helped local homeowners move smoothly for over 35 years. Whether you’re thinking about selling soon or just starting to plan, we can guide you on the best timing, strategy, and presentation for your home.
Get in touch for a no-obligation valuation — and let’s make sure your 2026 move starts on the right foot.
📍 Moreland – North & North West London’s trusted estate agent since 1988
📞 020 8381 4970 | 🌐 moreland.uk.com
