Summer brings high hopes for sellers. Gardens look their best, daylight lasts longer, and the idea of a summer move feels appealing to buyers. But if your home didn’t attract serious interest, it’s worth understanding why and taking the right steps now to make the most of the autumn market.
The property market can feel unpredictable, with localised patterns that shift quickly. Ellis & Co. works with sellers across the capital and beyond, and we’ve put together this guide to help you reset and relaunch effectively.
Related: When is the best time to sell your home?
Why summer isn’t always the best season to sell
While summer may seem ideal on paper, the reality can be different. Here’s why things often slow down:
Family schedules dominate
July and August are peak holiday periods. Many buyers put their plans on hold, especially families tied to school terms.
Less urgency to act
Some buyers wait for a wider choice in autumn. Others hold off making offers, assuming new listings will appear in September.
Distraction from viewings
Good weather and social plans often mean fewer weekend appointments. Buyers may browse but delay decisions until their routines return.
Market mismatch
While listings increase, buyer demand may temporarily dip, leading to longer time on market and less competitive bidding.
According to the latest Zoopla House Price Index, the number of homes for sale in summer 2025 was the highest since 2019, giving buyers more choice and slowing down decisions.
Resetting your sale for September
The good news? Autumn is one of the most active times of year. Here’s how to prepare:
Give your listing a seasonal update
Photos taken in early summer may now look tired. Consider replacing images with softer tones, warmer interiors and natural autumn light.
Re-write your property description
Buyers searching in autumn tend to focus on practical features: energy efficiency, layout, working-from-home space, transport links. Make sure your listing highlights these points clearly.
Use fresh keywords in online listings
Search behaviour changes seasonally. Keywords like “ready to move before Christmas,” “school catchment,” or “low maintenance” can catch attention at this time of year.
Check for hidden blocks
Is your EPC up to date? Have you filled out property forms accurately? Anything that slows progress behind the scenes can deter buyers.
Ask your agent to re-launch
Relisting or updating your portal listing can push your property higher in search results, bringing in new traffic.
Signs your pricing might need a second look
One of the most common reasons properties don’t sell is unrealistic pricing. Even a small mismatch between asking price and buyer expectations can lead to reduced interest.
According to Zoopla insights, homes reduced by more than 5% take nearly three times longer to sell. That delay can damage momentum and lower final sale price.
Ask your agent:
- How does my price compare to similar properties recently sold in my area?
- What’s the average time on market locally?
- Have buyer budgets changed since I listed?
Small price adjustments can have a big effect on visibility and attract more serious enquiries.
Related: House selling timeline – What to expect
Presentation matters more than ever
A buyer’s first impression starts online. If your home didn’t capture attention in summer, it may need more than a seasonal tweak.
Clear clutter with purpose
Create space in hallways, kitchens and living rooms. Store away summer items like fans, paddling pools or sun loungers.
Show lifestyle, not just space
Stage rooms with subtle touches: a desk for hybrid working, a tidy play corner, a reading nook. Help buyers see themselves living there.
Use daylight wisely
Autumn light is softer. Schedule photography for mornings or early afternoons, and use lighting that enhances warmth.
Keep outdoor space tidy
A leaf-free path, pruned hedges and a swept patio help maintain curb appeal well into the season.
Related: How to prepare your home for photography
What serious buyers are looking for this autumn
Autumn buyers often move with intent. They’ve returned from summer ready to act, and many aim to move before the festive season.
They want well-prepared listings
A clean, modern, clearly described home stands out among older listings.
They value speed and clarity
Properties with completed paperwork, accessible agents and flexible viewing slots are more likely to progress.
They prioritise location and layout
School catchments, transport access and energy efficiency have all ranked higher on buyer lists in recent surveys.
They’re motivated to offer if it feels right
Well-positioned properties priced to reflect current market conditions often generate offers within weeks.
How Ellis & Co can help you sell this autumn
With over 170 years of property experience and offices across London and the South East, Ellis & Co understands the pace and complexity of local markets.
Here’s what we do differently:
Accurate market appraisal
We offer realistic, data-led valuations based on up-to-date local sales.
Fresh marketing packages
From new photography to social media and portal upgrades, we relaunch your listing with renewed energy.
Qualified buyer matching
Our network of registered buyers means we can bring serious interest to your door, fast.
Proactive sales progression
Once you’ve accepted an offer, we keep things moving. Regular updates, efficient communication and local legal knowledge keep sales on track.
Clear advice at every stage
Whether you’re downsizing, relocating or rethinking your next step, we help you make confident, informed decisions.
Final thoughts
If your property didn’t sell over summer, it’s not necessarily a reflection of the home itself. Seasonal slowdowns, mismatched pricing, or untapped marketing potential can all play a part.
Now is the time to take control of your sale. The autumn market offers motivated buyers, and with the right changes, your home could be back under offer in no time.
Whether you want a second opinion, a brand-new listing strategy or simply a fresh set of eyes, Ellis & Co is here to help.
Book your free property valuation with Ellis & Co. Let’s get your sale moving again.
