Why Autumn is a Good Time to Buy

Thinking of buying a home this Autumn? You might be onto something. Whilst springtime often steals the spotlight, Autumn brings its own unique blend of advantages – especially in the current UK property market. As your trusted local estate agency in the Chiltern Hills, Jeremy Swan estate agents are here to offer you friendly, expert insight into why Autumn could be your most opportune moment to buy.

1. More Motivated Sellers

Autumn sellers are often keen to wrap up deals before winter sets in, creating room for flexibility. Whether they’re relocating for work, moving to be nearer family, or simply want to settle before the Christmas holidays, these sellers are motivated. This urgency can translate into smoother deals and potentially better prices.

2. Less Competition, More Clarity

After the high stakes busyness of Spring and Summer, the Autumn market tends to quieten done. Fewer buyers means less competition and fewer bidding wars. Naturally this is good news for buyers as it often translates to better negotiating power and more considered decision-making. This gives buyers the space to explore options without rushing or overpaying.

3. Autumn Budget 2025: Implications for Homebuyers

The upcoming Autumn Budget, set for Wednesday 26^th November 2025, brings a mix of uncertainty – and potential opportunity for property buyers.

What’s on the table?

• Property Tax Reforms: Consideration is being given to replacing stamp duty with an annual property tax possibly levelling the playing field for long-term buyers.
• Capital Gains Tax (CGT): There’s talk about extending CGT to high-value main residences over certain thresholds.
• Landlord Income Taxation: Rental income might be brought into the National Insurance Net, potentially impacting buy-to-let markets and broader housing demand.
• Market Sentiment: Policy speculation has already cooled activity – house prices have dipped by around 0.1% over the course of August.

4. A Realistic View, A Cosier Move-In

Autumn, with its cooler temperatures, softer light and occasional rain, let’s you see a home in a more realistic view with issues such as drafts, damp, heating efficiency or drainage problems being more apparent and probably in line with your Energy Performance Certificate. This allows you to make a smarter, more informed choice on whether to proceed with buying the property or not.

These issues satisfied, buy in autumn and you could be settling into your new home just in time for winter and the festive season, putting up your decorations and getting settled in all ahead of the springtime rush.

Your Autumn Buying Checklist

Ready to find your perfect home this autumn in Great Missenden or the surrounding villages?

Explore our current listings and book a viewing today – before the Budget dust settles. We at Jeremy Swan are here to guide you with our local expertise, trusted advice and as always, a personal touch.