The summer holidays have ended.

The kids are back to school, and the distractions of Euro 2020 and the Tokyo Olympics have gone.

What have we got to look forward to? Easy, Christmas.

Yes, we know it seems a long way off, but if you’re thinking of celebrating it in a new home, it’s time to get things sorted.

Recent research from one of the most respected organisations in the estate agency industry, Propertymark, highlights the need to get your selling skates on if a new abode is at the top of your Christmas wish list.

The organisation’s findings show the average time taken from an offer to exchange is now at 13-16 weeks. This doesn’t consider the period from when your property goes on the market, and an acceptable offer is made.

A statement from Propertymark’s CEO said the average time used to be around 6-8 weeks, but the post-pandemic market across the UK and AREA is ‘a very different beast.’

This is due to several factors. Record levels of transactions, pressure on solicitors, mortgage companies and even overworked removal firms are slowing the process.

There are just over 15 weeks until turkey time (other culinary options are available), so speed is of the essence.

Here’s a simple ABC plan to put you on the path to opening presents in a new home on 25 December.

A)     Action – Take the first steps of calling in three agents to give you a valuation of your home. Always ask this question of them: How will you go about getting me the price you say my home is currently worth?

B)     Be Ready – Now is the time to get your house in order, literally and metaphorically speaking. Do those little maintenance jobs that have been left for ages. You’d be amazed how off-putting peeling fence paint or missing cabinet handles are for prospective buyers. And get all your paperwork organised. You’ll need warranties and receipts ready to help speed up the legal side of any sale.

C)     Check – We’re expecting a surge of sellers and buyers looking to move in the run-up to the festive season, so it’s worth thinking ahead. Call removal and storage companies for quotes and get dates penciled in with them. The good moving companies get booked in advance even when the market isn’t as busy as it is now.

If you have a dream about waking up on Christmas morning in a new home, get in touch with us on 01843 231833 or damien@cookeandco.com and we’ll help make it a reality. Click here to look at properties to sell/rent, our latest property insights/blog, and our amazing aerial tour.