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Why January 2025 is the Perfect Time to Move

As the calendar will soon be turning to January, many people find themselves embracing the idea of fresh starts and new beginnings. While spring has traditionally been the most popular season to move house, there’s a compelling case for January as an equally, if not more, advantageous time to embark on this life-changing endeavour.

Let’s explore why starting the new year with a move could be the perfect choice for you.

A Fresh Perspective

For some, the decision to move in the new year stems from introspection over the holiday season. The extended downtime during Christmas often highlights the flaws in a home, whether it’s cramped spaces, a lack of functionality, or just a desire for something new. Combined with the motivational “new year, new me” mindset, January naturally feels like the right time to take the plunge.

Yet, beyond personal resolutions, there are practical and financial incentives to make January a top contender for moving house.

Five Reasons January is a Smart Month to Move
  1. Economic Advantages for Buyers
    According to property experts, including data from Zoopla, UK house prices are projected to dip by 2% over the course of 2025. This slight decline, paired with potential income growth and stabilising mortgage rates, could make homes more affordable than they’ve been in years. Acting early in the year may allow buyers to secure a favourable deal before competition heats up.
  2. A Competitive Market with Plenty of Stock
    The number of properties has been at its highest in five years, providing buyers with more choices. Sellers, eager to attract attention in a saturated market, may be pricing their homes competitively – great news for those ready to make their move.
  3. Selling in a Less Crowded Market
    Although overall housing stock is robust, some sellers pull their properties from the market during the winter months, assuming demand will wane. This creates an opportunity for those listing their home in January to face less competition, potentially speeding up the sales process and breaking through the often-cumbersome housing chain.
  4. Fewer Buyers, Less Stress
    January’s chilly weather and limited daylight discourage casual house hunters, leaving only serious buyers in the market. This not only reduces competition for dream homes but also provides a calmer environment for negotiations, allowing buyers to secure better deals with less urgency.
  5. Motivated Sellers Mean Better Deals
    Sellers who keep their homes on the market in January are often motivated to close deals quickly, particularly if they have their sights set on their next property. This willingness to negotiate can translate into meaningful savings for buyers or advantageous terms for closing.
A Word of Caution: Invest in a Quality Survey

While January offers many advantages, it also brings challenges for homes, particularly older properties, that may show their vulnerabilities in winter. Issues like dampness, inadequate insulation, or faulty heating systems are more likely to be apparent during the colder months.

To avoid costly surprises, invest in a thorough survey before finalising your purchase. While it might feel like an extra expense, a survey can save you significant time, money, and stress by uncovering potential problems early.

Start Your New Year Right

A new year move can be the perfect way to start a new chapter, combining economic benefits with a fresh outlook for the year ahead. Whether you’re buying your first home or upgrading to better suit your lifestyle, acting in January could position you to make the most of 2025’s unique market dynamics.

Embrace the possibilities of a new home this January – your fresh start awaits.

Whether you’re buying or selling, preparation and expertise are your best allies. At Duncan Yeardley, we pride ourselves on offering insightful advice and practical solutions to help our clients succeed in a competitive market. Let us guide you through this pivotal moment in the property market with clarity and confidence.

For personalised help and advice, get in touch with the team today. Your next move is our priority.

Ascot | 01344 874300

Bracknell | 01344 860121

Sourced from collinshoy.com
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