Hoping to move in 2026? Whether you’re just starting to plan or have been trying to sell for a while, the weeks before Christmas offer a real opportunity to stand out, and get closer to securing your next home.
The market is calmer and buyers have fewer properties to choose from. Come January, we often see a flood of new listings, with platforms like Rightmove consistently report a major spike in activity from Boxing Day. Acting now, even with a few small adjustments, can put you ahead of that surge.
Homewise is here to help guide you at every step. Here’s how to use this time of year to your advantage:
The recent Government Budget didn’t directly affect most homeowners, but it did put added pressure on landlords. Early analysis from sources like The Guardian and Financial Times suggests many landlords may list their properties in early 2026 to manage changing tax rules and rising costs.
This means:
Getting ahead now means you’re not competing with that influx.
Zoopla’s reporting shows that demand often softens briefly after major announcements, then rebounds strongly in January. If you’re prepared in December, you can be ready for that rebound instead of reacting to it.
If your home has been on the market for some time, this is a helpful moment to review your approach.
Rightmove’s November House Price Index stated:
This tells us two things: buyers are being cautious, and realistic pricing is working. Even a modest adjustment can bring your home back into searches and help it feel more competitive.
At the same time, a quick refresh can make your listing stand out while the market is quieter. Consider refining the description or updating photography so your property feels bright and current.
These simple updates can make your listing feel new again and help you connect with motivated buyers who are still searching before Christmas.
With fewer competing homes on the market, your refreshed listing has an even better chance of being noticed. Homewise can help review your pricing and share insight into what today’s buyers are responding to, contact our expert team today.
Many buyers over 60 remain active in December. Some want to avoid another winter with high running costs. Others hope to find a home that’s easier to manage, warmer, or closer to family. Their search can become more focused, not less, at this time of year.
Lower stock levels also mean your property may stand out more clearly to these buyers.
If you’re selling via a Homewise partner estate agent, be sure to take advantage of Market Plus. Get a free second listing tailored for Over 60s and double reach instantly! Talk to your agent about Market Plus or ask Homewise for further details.
With this year’s surge likely to be even stronger — thanks to Budget delays, more landlords selling, and homeowners restarting plans — now is the best time to make sure your home is ready.
If your property is priced confidently and your listing feels fresh, you’ll be in a strong position to benefit from this wave of activity rather than compete with it.
Acting now doesn’t just help you stand out — it also moves you closer to the future you want. Selling earlier can mean being settled by spring or early summer, reducing monthly costs sooner, and avoiding another winter in a home that no longer suits your needs.
It could help you:
Homewise is here to guide you calmly through every step and help you navigate the market with confidence.
But taking a simple step - reviewing your price, refreshing your listing, or speaking with someone who understands the market - can completely change your position when January arrives.
Act now to:
Speak with Homewise today. If you’d like a friendly, helpful conversation about your options — whether you’re just starting or have been trying to sell for a while — we’re here to guide you.
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Let’s make the next step feel clearer, lighter, and more hopeful.