The property portal found that homes listed in the month typically find a buyer the quickest, as well as being most likely to be marked sold subject to contract.
Rightmove data also showed that March is also historically a strong month for sellers to get their home on the market.
According to the data, in the year so far the number of buyers contacting agents about homes for sale is eight per cent higher than last year, while the number of new properties being listed by sellers is 11 per cent higher.
The analysis looked at millions of properties listed for sale since 2012 and the trends linked to the month of listing, excluding 2020 due to the pandemic.
On average, homes listed in February have taken 51 days to find a buyer – just ahead of March’s 52 days, level with January.
In addition, an average of 66.4 per cent of homes listed in February have gone on to find a buyer – the best chance of finding a buyer alongside April – just pipping second placed March’s 66.3 per cent.
February listings are also the most likely to go on and finalise a completion of sale, and the least likely to be withdrawn by the owner from the market.
‘Start of year strong time to sell’
Tim Bannister, Rightmove’s property expert, said: “The best time to get moving is the time that’s right for you – we can’t always plan or predict when a life move is needed. However, for those who are able to be a bit more flexible about when they decide to sell, the data shows typically the start of the year has been particularly strong.
“It’s also when we’ve historically seen the most buyers sending enquiries to agents, so it’s a great time for those looking to sell to make sure they are listed, their marketing is strong and they’re pricing attractively enough against other sellers.”
Top tips to sell your home
- First impressions count, so don’t forget the condition of the driveway, front garden and exterior of your home.
- Put the heating on – viewers will get a poor impression of your home if it’s cold when they walk in.
- Declutter – invest in some temporary storage and make sure the home is clear and tidy for viewings. Buyers want a blank canvas.
- Clear up the garden – buyers will pay extra attention to any outside space you have if you market your home in the spring or summer.
- Keep pets out of the way – roaming dogs and cats may put potential buyers off.
