The Best Time to Move : The Pros and Cons of moving in Autumn
Moving house? While spring and summer are peak seasons for movers, autumn offers unique benefits worth considering. With less competition, faster processes, milder weather, cosy home viewings, and better negotiating positions, autumn can be ideal. At Property Connections, we've guided many successful autumn moves. Here's what to consider.
The Pros of Moving in Autumn
1. Less Competition in the Market
Summer is typically the busiest period for buyers and sellers. By autumn, the market tends to quieten down considerably, meaning you may face significantly less competition from other buyers. For sellers, this often means dealing with more motivated and serious buyers, rather than those who are merely browsing without firm intentions to purchase.
2. Quicker Transactions
With fewer people moving compared to the summer rush, solicitors, mortgage lenders, and removal companies often have much more availability in their diaries. This can translate to faster response times, shorter waiting periods, and ultimately smoother progress towards completion. Many of our clients have found that autumn moves proceed with fewer delays than those in busier seasons.
3. Perfect Weather for Moving
Autumn in Scotland typically offers mild, manageable weather conditions that are ideal for moving. You won't be contending with the summer heat and humidity or the unpredictability of winter snow, ice, and freezing temperatures, which makes moving day far more comfortable for everyone involved, including your removal team.
4. Homes Look Their Cosiest
As the nights draw in and temperatures drop, properties often feel more welcoming with warm lighting, autumn décor, and a touch of seasonal charm. The golden autumn light can make gardens look particularly beautiful, whilst interiors benefit from feeling snug and inviting. Buyers walking into a home in autumn are more likely to envision themselves settled in before Christmas, creating an emotional connection that can lead to offers.
5. Better Negotiating Position
With fewer buyers in the market, those who are house-hunting in autumn may find themselves in a stronger position to negotiate on price. Sellers who have had their properties on the market since summer might be more amenable to reasonable offers, especially as they contemplate the possibility of their property remaining unsold over
winter.
The Cons of Moving in Autumn
1. Shorter Days
With significantly less daylight available, scheduling viewings can become quite challenging. Buyers may find themselves visiting properties after work when it's already dark, which can make homes feel smaller or less welcoming if they aren't properly illuminated. This is particularly important for properties with gardens or outdoor spaces that are difficult to appreciate in darkness.
2. Weather Uncertainty
Whilst autumn weather is usually milder than winter, it can still be rather unpredictable in Scotland. Heavy rain, strong winds, and occasional early frosts can make moving day trickier if you don't plan ahead thoroughly. It's essential to have contingency plans and ensure your removal company is experienced in handling adverse conditions.
3. Holiday Deadlines
Some buyers and sellers feel considerable pressure to complete before Christmas, which can create tighter timelines and additional stress. This isn't always a negative aspect, but it does mean careful planning is absolutely essential. Setting realistic expectations about completion dates can help mitigate this pressure.
4. School Considerations
For families with children, an autumn move means settling in during the school term, which can be disruptive. If you're moving to a new area, you'll need to coordinate with schools well in advance to ensure a smooth transition for your children, particularly if popular schools in your target area have waiting lists.
Is Autumn the Right Time for You?
Every move is different and personal circumstances vary enormously, but autumn offers a sweet spot between the frantic summer season and the significant slowdown of winter. With fewer distractions, smoother transactions, and a cosy backdrop for selling, it can be the perfect time to settle into your new home before the festive season begins.
Many of our clients have found that moving in autumn allows them to be fully settled before the Christmas holidays, meaning they can enjoy their first Christmas in their new home without boxes and disruption. Additionally, removal companies often offer more competitive rates outside of the peak summer season, potentially saving you money on your moving costs.
At Property Connections, we know the market inside and out. Whether you're buying your first property, upsizing for a growing family, or downsizing for retirement, we'll guide you every step of the way and ensure your move progresses as smoothly as possible.
Thinking about moving this autumn? Get in touch with Team PC today to discuss your plans and see how we can help you navigate the autumn property market with confidence and ease.