Selling this summer? Make the first week count

The first seven days after listing a property are widely seen as the most critical stage of the selling process. This is when a home is newly listed, gaining maximum exposure across property portals and attracting the highest levels of buyer interest.

For many sellers, this short window can set the tone for the entire sale, influencing both the speed of the transaction and the offers received.

Getting the asking price correct is essential. Setting it too high can discourage early interest and reduce the likelihood of a successful sale. Research¹ shows that 44% of UK homes listed in recent years failed to sell, with overpricing identified as the leading cause.

In fact, even a modest increase above market value can have an impact, with every 5% overpricing reducing the chances of selling.

Before going to market, presentation should be a priority. Buyers often form opinions within seconds, particularly when browsing online listings.

Simple improvements such as decluttering, addressing minor repairs and ensuring your home is well lit can make it more appealing. High-quality photography is equally important, as strong visuals help attract attention and encourage viewings, while poor images may deter buyers before they engage further.

Alongside preparing your property, it’s equally important to plan your next move. Having your finances and mortgage arrangements organised early can help you act quickly when you find a suitable property.

Whether you are moving up, downsizing or buying and selling simultaneously, understanding your borrowing position in advance can make the whole process smoother and give you greater confidence when making decisions.

¹Zoopla 2026

It is important to take professional advice before making any decision relating to your personal finances. Information within this article is based on our current understanding and can be subject to change without notice and the accuracy and completeness of the information cannot be guaranteed. It does not provide individual tailored advice and is for guidance only. Some rules may vary in different parts of the UK.