Pumpkin spice is everywhere, the nights are drawing in, and the leaves are turning glorious shades of gold. We love Autumn! It’s one of the times when Edinburgh is at its most beautiful (did you know Edinburgh has more trees per capita than any other UK city?!) and it’s also one of the very best seasons to sell your home.
Autumn buyers tend to be some of the most motivated. Many have set themselves the goal of being moved in by Christmas or the New Year, giving them a clear deadline and a strong incentive to act quickly. Unlike in Summer, buyers aren’t distracted by holidays, festivals, or school breaks, and with a good window of opportunity before the festive season takes over, now is the perfect time to get your property on the market.
Is it too late to sell my property this Autumn?
Absolutely not! At Neilsons, we have a streamlined process that can bring your property to market in as little as five working days. That includes organising your Home Report, professional photography, bespoke marketing materials, ‘For Sale’ boards, and matching your property to our in-house database of over 135,000 registered buyers.
Our median time to sale is just 22 days, faster than the ESPC average and our sellers achieve more over the Home Report value than the ESPC average. With demand still high and buyers expecting to pay over Home Report value to secure a property, Edinburgh remains one of the strongest and most resilient property markets in the UK and over 1 in 10 properties in Edinburgh and the Lothians are sold with Neilsons, so we have our finger firmly on the pulse of the local market.
How should I prepare my home for sale this Autumn?
Our team of expert valuers will provide you with free, tailored “house doctoring” advice to help maximise your sale. We can recommend trusted tradespeople for any jobs, and we’re highly experienced in property staging – whether you’d prefer to do it yourself with our guidance or bring in our recommended contacts.
For a truly stress-free move, don’t forget to explore our Edinburgh’s Ultimate Home Move package in partnership with LIFE / EDIT and Broughtons Removals and Storage.
Top Tips for Selling Your Home in Autumn
Boost your kerb appeal
First impressions matter. Cut back the front garden, tidy paths, and give your front door a fresh lick of paint. Check that your doorbell and outdoor lighting are in working order. Adding a planter with some vibrant, seasonal flowers can make a welcoming impact. For photography, keep seasonal decorations (wreaths, pumpkins, Halloween décor) out of sight to ensure your listing appeals to buyers year-round
Create a cosy interior
Autumn is the season of warmth and comfort, so make your home feel inviting. Ensure the heating system is working efficiently and, if you have a fireplace or log burner, light it for viewings. These features are high on many buyers’ wish lists. Soft furnishings such as throws and cushions can add extra cosiness.
Light it right
With shorter days and unpredictable weather, good lighting is essential. Replace any dim or broken bulbs, and opt for warm, soft lighting rather than harsh or clinical tones. Table and floor lamps can help create an intimate, welcoming atmosphere.
Highlight outdoor living
After summer, gardens can look a little wild. Trim hedges, cut back plants, and deadhead flowers. Stage outdoor spaces to show they can still be enjoyed, a garden bench with cushions and a blanket can spark buyers’ imagination. Many people grew accustomed to outdoor living during the pandemic, so demonstrate how your space can be used year-round.
Check your EPC rating
Energy efficiency is an increasing concern for buyers, especially as colder weather looms. Small improvements like draught-proofing or upgrading light bulbs can reassure buyers.
Declutter, Depersonalise and Deep Clean
This classic trio always applies. Clear away summer clothing and toys, pack up anything not needed until next year, and remove personal items (family photos, toiletries, medicines). Buyers want to picture themselves in the space, not feel like visitors in yours. Finally, deep clean everywhere, including cupboards and storage areas, as buyers will look inside.
Timing is Everything
Wherever possible schedule your appointments during daylight hours to capture your property at it’s best. For photography, this could mean taking advantage of our stunning ‘Twilight Photo’ options, particularly impactful for homes with outside lighting. For viewings, having availability during daylight hours is ideal for showing off natural light and outside spaces.
Finally…
For most people, their home is their biggest asset and selling is the one opportunity to maximise capital tax-free. This is not the time to cut corners or rush decisions. Taking professional, regulated advice is the wisest first step. At Neilsons Solicitors and Estate Agents, all of our initial advice is absolutely free of charge, so you have nothing to lose – book your appointment here
Book a free consultation with Neilsons here!
