For homeowners across the UK, selling a property can feel like an endless waiting game. According to the latest figures from Rightmove, the average time to secure a sale in 2025 stretched from 59 to 77 days. However, a significant market shift in early 2026 presents a golden opportunity for sellers looking to move quickly.
A Favourable Market for Sellers
Data from the property portal reveals a dramatic jump in asking prices for January 2026, which rose by 2.8% or nearly £10,000. This marks the most substantial monthly increase since June 2025 and represents the largest January price surge witnessed in a quarter of a century. While factors like property chains inevitably influence sale timelines, experts argue that sellers can take decisive action to attract buyers while conditions are favourable.
Phil Spencer, the renowned founder of Move iQ and co-presenter of Location, Location, Location, has shared his essential guidance with Metro. He outlines the practical, sometimes brutal, truths homeowners must acknowledge to achieve a successful and speedy sale in the current climate.
1. The Critical First Step: Declutter and Depersonalise
Phil Spencer's first piece of advice is deceptively simple yet profoundly effective. "This year, there are more homes on the market than buyers," he states, highlighting the competitive landscape. To stand out, sellers must prepare their homes to appeal to the broadest possible audience.
This means rigorously clearing away clutter, including personal photographs and trinkets that can make spaces feel overly occupied. "When potential buyers view your home, they want to imagine themselves living there," Spencer explains. The goal is not to create a sterile show home but to offer a clean, tidy canvas that allows viewers to project their own lives onto the property, ensuring every viewing begins on the best possible note.
2. Refresh and Repair: The Power of Presentation
Ignoring minor wear and tear is a common mistake. Spencer urges sellers to address the small marks, scratches, and maintenance issues they may have overlooked for years. "Taking the time to fill any cracks in the plaster and give the walls a fresh coat of paint will pay big dividends," he advises. A simple touch-up can make a home appear well-cared-for, vibrant, and instantly more inviting.
Similarly, fixing that dripping tap, squeaky door hinge, or wobbly handle is non-negotiable. "Buying a home is stressful," Spencer notes, "and you want prospective buyers to feel reassured that if they choose yours, they won't have a lot of problems to fix right away." Proactively handling repairs signals responsible ownership and can prevent buyers from negotiating a lower price.
3. The Non-Negotiable Deep Clean
First impressions are formed in moments. Phil Spencer reminds sellers that "most buyers decide whether or not to make an offer after only spending around 10 minutes in the property." To make those precious minutes count, a comprehensive, deep clean is essential. This goes far beyond a quick tidy for the estate agent's photographs.
Every surface, corner, and fixture should sparkle. A home that is immaculately clean not only feels fresher and larger but also subconsciously assures buyers of its condition. It is a fundamental step in creating an environment where potential purchasers can envision their future.
4. Choosing Your Champion: Selecting the Right Estate Agent
Perhaps Spencer's most crucial tip revolves around the professional you hire to market your home. The wrong choice can lead to months of anxious waiting, while the right one can secure a swift sale at the best price. He warns against selecting an agent based solely on their fee or the initial valuation they provide.
Instead, conduct thorough research. Read reviews, verify qualifications and experience, and seek personal recommendations. Spencer emphasises that agents who are members of professional bodies like Propertymark adhere to a strict code of conduct. "Agents who are proactive and can demonstrate clearly all the steps they'll take to sell your home are the most likely to provide a good service," he concludes.
By implementing Phil Spencer's focused strategies—decluttering, making repairs, refreshing decor, conducting a deep clean, and carefully selecting an agent—homeowners can significantly enhance their property's appeal. In a 2026 market showing promising early growth, these steps could be the key to turning a lengthy selling process into a successful and efficient transaction.
