Fewer Homes on the Market. More Buyers Than Last Year. Should You Sell Now?
Despite seasonal assumptions, the latest Rightmove House Price Index reveals that buyer demand has held steady across October and early November, with new activity from serious buyers still outperforming 2024 but what does this mean?
Think the market slows down in winter? Think again.
Despite seasonal assumptions, the latest Rightmove House Price Index reveals that buyer demand has held steady across October and early November, with new activity from serious buyers still outperforming 2024.
For sellers who want to stand out, now could be the smartest time to launch, before the January rush floods the market with new stock.
The data behind the demand:
According to the Rightmove House Price Index, the key trends are clear:
- Buyer demand is up 2% year-on-year compared to this time in 2024
- Sales agreed have increased by 4%, showing serious buyers are converting when the price and marketing align
- There has been a 5% drop in new listings, meaning less competition for those going to market now
- Well-priced, well-marketed homes are outperforming stale or overpriced listings
This paints a picture of a value-driven yet motivated buyer pool, especially for homes that feel ‘turnkey’ and are visually well presented online.
Why waiting for January might be a missed opportunity:
- Many homeowners hold off until the new year to launch, but doing so might actually work against them.
- By early January, Rightmove typically sees a surge in listings, creating a saturated market
- Your property could get lost in a wave of competition
- Serious buyers are already active now, aiming to secure a move before spring
- Reduced marketing noise in November and December means your listing stands out more clearly to active buyers
At The Avenue, our agents are seeing a rise in viewing requests, particularly for homes with strong photography, cinematic video tours, and right-priced positioning. Combined with our nationwide marketing reach, your home can command attention at the exact time buyers are most decisive.
What can sellers do now to capitalise?
Here are 4 actions to take immediately:
- Review your asking price: Is it aligned with today’s comparables? A strategic price can drive urgency.
- Refresh your marketing assets: Use our bespoke marketing strategy to give your home a fresh feel and new digital life.
- Stage for the season: Show your home as warm, inviting, and ready for a buyer to move in this winter.
- Understand your financial edge: Use our Better Off Calculator to compare potential outcomes using different agents and marketing strategies.
What we’re hearing from buyers:
Our agents report that the most active buyers this month are:
- Families looking to move before school term changes
- Professionals relocating before Q1 starts
- Investors seeking opportunities before potential tax shifts in 2026
- Buyers with mortgage offers secured at current rates, motivated to complete quickly
These aren’t time wasters, they’re ready to go. Which is why positioning your home right now could unlock the perfect buyer before the spring frenzy begins.
Want clarity on your home's current market value?
Don't rely on guesswork. We'll provide a data-led, marketing-first strategy to help you make informed decisions.
👉 Or compare your current position with our Better Off Calculator
Sellers who act now aren’t early, they’re ahead. Get the jump on January. Let’s talk about your next move.