Every year around February, we start hearing it:
“Shall we wait until spring to sell?”
It’s one of the biggest beliefs in property.
Longer days. Flowers blooming. Gardens looking their best.
But here’s the honest answer…
Spring can be great — but it’s not automatically the best time to sell.
Let’s break down what’s really happening in the Exeter market.
🌼 Why Spring Became “Selling Season”
Traditionally, spring made sense.
- Gardens look better
- Natural light improves photography
- Families want to move before the new school year
- Buyers feel more motivated after winter
In areas like St Leonard’s and Pennsylvania, where period homes and gardens are a big draw, spring presentation can absolutely help.
But here’s the important part:
The season alone doesn’t create demand.
Buyers do.
📈 When Are Buyers Actually Most Active?
From what we see on the ground in Exeter, serious buyer activity isn’t limited to one season.
In fact:
- January often brings highly motivated buyers who paused over Christmas
- Autumn can be extremely strong with less competition
- Summer can slow slightly due to holidays
- December buyers are usually very committed
What really drives activity?
- Mortgage confidence
- Stock levels
- Correct pricing
- Lifestyle changes (job moves, schools, family needs)
Not just daffodils 🌼
🏡 The Competition Factor
Here’s something many sellers don’t consider.
If you list in peak spring season, you’re also listing when:
- More properties come to market
- Buyers have more choice
- Your home has more competition
Whereas listing in January or early autumn can mean:
- Less competing stock
- More focused buyers
- Stronger negotiation position
Sometimes being one of fewer quality homes available works in your favour.
💡 Pricing Beats Timing
If a home is:
- Presented beautifully
- Priced strategically
- Marketed properly
- Positioned correctly
It will attract interest in any season.
We’ve seen properties in Exeter achieve excellent results in:
- Late November
- Early January
- Height of summer
Because the fundamentals were right.
Overpricing in spring will still struggle.
Well-priced in winter will still generate viewings.
Timing helps.
Strategy matters more.
🌿 So… Should You Wait?
Instead of asking:
“Is spring the best time to sell?”
A better question is:
“Is now the right time for me to move?”
If the answer is yes — then the market timing can usually be managed around you.
Exeter continues to attract families, relocators and professionals year-round. The key is understanding local demand and positioning your property properly from day one.
That’s where experienced, local advice makes all the difference.
Thinking of Moving in 2026?
If you’re debating whether to wait for spring or move sooner, we’re always happy to offer honest, no-pressure advice about your specific home and location.
Every property — and every street — behaves slightly differently.
And that’s where local knowledge really counts.
Call us on 01392 204800
