Nov 3, 2025
The housing market is never static. It shifts with the seasons, responds to sentiment, and behaves differently from one postcode — even one street — to the next. At Wilkinson Grant & Co, we know this better than most.
While national headlines might focus on price dips or slowing sales, the reality on the ground tells a far more nuanced story. Here in the Greater Exeter area, for example, we’ve seen a lively autumn — with several of our recent Open Houses drawing healthy double figure viewings, competition and multiple offers.
So, what can you do to ensure your home stands out — and sells — whatever the market mood? Here are five essentials to help you attract the right buyers and achieve the best result.
A good agent doesn’t just “list and wait.” They match homes with buyers — often long before a property appears online. Look for an agent who’s not only qualified and experienced, but also a member of a recognised professional body such as Propertymark, which ensures they work to the highest standards. The best agents will already have serious buyers on their books and will know which ones are waiting for a home just like yours.
Setting the right asking price is crucial. Pitch too high, and you risk deterring buyers before they even step through the door; too low, and you leave money on the table. Recent research shows that properties correctly priced from day one sell faster and achieve stronger final figures. Once a home goes “stale” on Rightmove and the other property portals, people may start to wonder what’s wrong with it — even when nothing is. At Wilkinson Grant, we price based on real-time local data, market feel, and years of experience negotiating sales across every part of the market. Getting this right at the outset is one of the most important steps toward a successful sale.
In today’s market, first impressions start online. Great photography is vital, but it’s not just about a few wide-angle shots. The aim is to capture the feeling of your home — light, space, warmth and lifestyle. Before photography day, take time to prepare. Declutter, tidy gardens, touch up paintwork, and let natural light flood in. The result isn’t a show home — it’s a home that helps buyers picture their life unfolding there. Once it’s live, a detailed floorplan, engaging description, and (where relevant) a short video walkthrough can all help bring your property to life. The best listings make buyers feel they already know the home before they’ve even booked a viewing.
Viewings are where expertise really counts. Experienced agents know how to pace a tour, highlight the home’s strengths, and sense what matters most to each viewer. While it can be tempting to host viewings yourself, buyers generally relax — and talk more openly — when the owner isn’t present. Giving your agent a key and the freedom to arrange viewings flexibly means you’ll capture more opportunities and ensure every visit is professionally handled. We often find that the most successful sales come from homes that are easy to access and ready to show at short notice. The more doors you open, the more likely you are to find the right buyer.
Even in a buoyant market, flexibility is key. You may need to accommodate evening or weekend viewings, keep the house in “show-ready” condition for a little longer, or make small concessions along the way. Be open-minded about offers, too. The strongest buyer isn’t always the one offering the highest figure — sometimes it’s the one who can move quickly, or whose finances are rock-solid. A good agent will help you weigh every aspect to get the best overall outcome.
Above all, remember selling a home is a journey, not a transaction. With the right preparation, the right agent, and a strategic proactive approach, you can achieve the outcome you are hoping for whatever the market conditions.
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