When Do Surveyors Think It's the Best Time to Buy?
- Tollington Surveyors
- Jul 14
- 3 min read
When Do Surveyors Think It's the Best Time to Buy?
Timing matters in property. While every buyer’s situation is different, understanding seasonal market trends can help you make more informed decisions.
At Tollington Surveyors, we work exclusively across North London and are well placed to identify how the property market shifts throughout the year. From buyer competition to professional availability, the timing of your purchase can significantly affect your experience — and your negotiating power.
Spring (March–June): Busy But Competitive
Spring is traditionally the most active season. More properties are listed, viewings increase, and competition is high.
According to TwentyCi, March and July are the peak months for sales agreed.
With longer daylight and better weather, surveys and inspections can be booked more swiftly.
Downside: You’re often competing with more buyers, and conveyancers can experience backlogs.
Summer (July–August): Underrated Window
While it may seem counterintuitive, summer can be a quieter period for transactions — but in our experience, it’s one of the best times to buy, particularly in North London.
Families often go away on holiday, reducing competition.
Fewer viewings mean serious buyers stand out.
Estate agents, surveyors, and solicitors tend to have greater flexibility, which helps speed up the process.
Our view: July and August are excellent months for buyers seeking quicker inspections and more responsive professionals. Sellers may also be more open to realistic offers, especially those keen to complete before the new school term or before planning autumn listings. In areas like Harringay Ladder, Crouch End, Finsbury Park, and Muswell Hill, we regularly see larger family homes come onto the market in summer. This is often due to lifestyle shifts — for example, older children leaving for university or downsizers looking to sell before the autumn. These properties may not attract as much attention during the holiday period, presenting a quieter but strategic opportunity for buyers ready to act. For anyone looking at spacious period homes or extended properties in North London, summer can offer real value. With fewer buyers in circulation and agents more readily available, deals can progress faster and with less friction.
Autumn (September–October): Renewed Activity (September–October): Renewed Activity
After the summer lull, activity typically picks up. Sellers list homes to catch the autumn market before winter.
There's a balance of fresh listings and motivated buyers.
Weather is still suitable for inspections and viewings.
Tip: Ideal if you're targeting a move before Christmas.
Winter (November–February): Slower But Strategic
Winter brings fewer listings and viewings. However, motivated sellers are often willing to negotiate.
Transaction volumes fall, but serious buyers benefit from less competition.
Be prepared for slower turnaround times over the Christmas period.
Note: Limited daylight and weather conditions can affect survey access and visibility, particularly for roofs and external elements.
Transaction Timings: What the Data Shows
In 2025, the average time from listing to completion was 205 days nationally; in inner London, around 222 days.
RICS data showed a seasonal bounce in buyer demand in June 2025 following slower activity in spring.
Final Thoughts
If you're looking for value and efficiency, summer and late autumn are often overlooked but favourable windows. With less competition, more accessible professionals, and faster progression, these quieter months can deliver better deals—particularly in North London’s competitive market.
As surveyors, we find these periods also allow more time to investigate potential defects, carry out moisture testing thoroughly, and coordinate with solicitors and contractors without peak-season pressure. At Tollington Surveyors, we understand the subtle dynamics of the North London market. From Victorian terraces to post-war maisonettes, each property type comes with its own considerations. Our familiarity with the local architecture, soil conditions, and common structural risks allows us to offer grounded and practical advice.
Whether you're weighing up your first purchase or considering a larger move, we’d be happy to assist with a Homebuyer Report or full Building Survey. Please feel free to contact us for expert advice and assistance in making an informed decision about your property investment.
Tollington Surveyors is a small, locally-focused surveying company based in Stroud Green, and dedicated to serving the Haringey area. Learn more >
