The best time of the year to buy a house, if you're after a bargain - and when to avoid selling

• Househunters often have little choice about when to buy
• But what time of year you buy can make a big difference to the price you’ll pay
• A property expert has explained the pros and cons of buying at different times

For most people, if you’re buying a house that also means you’re selling one.

But for first-time buyers, or those who’ve sold up and are renting, choosing when to buy can be a tricky decision.

If that’s the position you find yourself in, a property expert has offered his advice about the pros and cons of buying and selling a home at different times of the year.

Sam Fox, founder of UK Mortgage Centre, says he’s often asked by clients when is a good time to make their move.

And although there is no one-size-fits-all answer, there are periods of the year when he always advises that the housing market can show green shoots.

“Most people looking to buy or sell a home are on and off Rightmove and other apps every day, looking for their dream property,” he says.

“But if they see it, the next question is usually ‘is now the right time?’. My answer to that is always the same: only you can know if it’s the right moment.

“Everybody’s circumstances are different and what could be a perfect moment to move for one, might not be for someone else.

“That said, generally, there are a few moments in the year where we do tend to see positive spikes. These are periods I always tell my clients to pay closer attention to the market, as there are great deals to be had.

March–May

Spring, running from March to May, is traditionally the most active season for buying and selling.

More properties come onto the market, gardens look their best and longer daylight hours make viewings easier. Sellers are motivated, and buyers feel energised after winter.

With so much activity, the main advantage for buyers in spring is choice. You’re more likely to find a home that meets all your criteria.

However, spring’s strength can also be its downside. More buyers in the market mean more competition, including sealed bids and quicker decision-making.

Homes that present well (which many do in spring) can attract multiple offers, pushing prices upward.

If choice matters more to you than negotiating room, spring is ideal. If not, you may find better tactical openings later in the year.

June–August

Early summer still benefits from spring momentum, but as July and August arrive, buyer activity often dips.

Holidays, school breaks and travel plans mean fewer people are out viewing. This slowdown creates a window of opportunity: asking prices often soften, especially from sellers keen to move before autumn.

The trade-off is that the number of homes on the market also declines. You may find fewer properties to choose from, but those who are selling are often more open to negotiation.

For buyers who prioritise value over variety, and who don’t mind a slower pace, late summer can be a smart time to act.

September–November

September to November brings the second peak of the property calendar. Families are back from summer holidays, children are in school, and many buyers aim to complete purchases before Christmas.

This period can be particularly fruitful because it combines elements of spring’s strong supply with a more focused, serious pool of buyers.

Homes can photograph beautifully at this time of year, and sellers tend to be motivated.

Autumn strikes a balance: generally, more choice than summer but without the intensity of spring.

For many buyers, this is the sweet spot, a practical mix of availability, realism and reduced competition.

Why to avoid Boxing Day sales

Rightmove always sees a massive spike in searches on Boxing Day. But I’d avoid getting drawn into this.

Why? The influx of new listings makes it harder for your property to stand out, as buyers are presented with an overwhelming number of options.

Plus, by the time the New Year rush begins, Boxing Day listings may appear dated. This can cause potential buyers to overlook your property or assume it has failed to sell, which may lead to lower offers.

Also, I find many people browse Rightmove over Christmas out of curiosity rather than intent. This can result in wasted time on viewings that don’t go anywhere.

So when is the best time to buy?

The real answer depends on your priorities:

• For the best choice: Buy in spring.
• For better negotiation: Try winter or late summer.
• For balance and seriousness in the market: Autumn is ideal.

If you’re looking to move house soon, another property expert has explained the first thing you should do to save money.