For homeowners thinking about selling, the early summer period can be a valuable time to enter the market. Properties often look their best, gardens feel more inviting, and many buyers are keen to make progress before the school holidays or before the second half of the year gets fully underway.

However, this is not a market where sellers can afford to rely on seasonal momentum alone.

 

The latest Rightmove House Price Index shows that the average asking price of a newly listed home rose by 1.2% in May 2026 to £378,304. That was a stronger-than-usual May increase, but asking prices were still 0.3% lower than the same time last year. Rightmove also reported that buyer choice is now at its highest level for this stage of the year since 2015.

 

That combination matters. Sellers may feel encouraged by the monthly rise in asking prices, but buyers have more homes to compare. When there is more choice, buyers tend to be more selective. They look closely at price, presentation, condition, running costs and whether a home feels genuinely worth viewing.

 

This is where the right launch strategy becomes essential. Some sellers are tempted to start high and reduce later if needed. The risk is that the first few weeks on the market are often when a property receives its strongest attention. If the asking price feels too ambitious, buyers may scroll past before ever booking a viewing.

 

A realistic price does not mean accepting less than your home is worth. It means using current evidence to position your property correctly. Recent comparable sales, competing listings, condition, improvements, garden space, parking, energy efficiency and overall buyer demand should all be taken into account.

 

Presentation is just as important. Buyers form opinions quickly, especially online. Clear rooms, tidy outdoor areas, clean windows, fresh paintwork and small repairs can all improve first impressions. A home that feels cared for is easier for buyers to imagine living in.

 

Photography and marketing also matter. Summer light can work in your favour but only if the property is prepared properly. Rooms should feel bright, uncluttered and purposeful. Outdoor space should be shown as somewhere enjoyable, not just functional.

 

Mortgage affordability is another factor shaping buyer decisions. The Bank of England’s current Bank Rate is 3.75%, with the next decision due on 18 June 2026. Even where buyers are confident, many are still working within strict monthly budgets.

 

That means sellers need to think like buyers. Would your home feel good value compared with similar properties? Does the listing answer obvious questions? Is there anything that might cause hesitation during a viewing?

 

The sellers most likely to succeed this summer are those who prepare before going live. That means getting advice early, understanding the competition, improving presentation and setting a price designed to generate interest from the start.

 

If you’re considering a move soon, complete the contact form and one of our team will arrange a no-obligation property valuation to help you plan your next steps.

If you’re considering letting out or selling a property, try booking a free home valuation with us and get solid local advice from an experienced agent. Or if you would like more guidance, try getting in contact by phone, email or by dropping into one of our offices:

01305 824455

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