Festive Surge in Property Sales Expected. Prepare for a Busy Winter Market
Thu 11 Dec 2025
WISHING ALL OUR CUSTOMERS A HAPPY CHRISTMAS AND A FABULOUS 2026
Thank you for all your support over the years.
As the year comes to an end, Williams & Donovan are preparing for what is expected to be an unusually active winter in the property market across Benfleet, Hockley, and the surrounding areas.
Traditionally seen as a quieter season, December and January have increasingly become high-demand months for homeowners looking to sell and buyers searching for their next property.
This year, industry insights highlight that 65% of estate agents are seeing increased December activity, fuelled partly by post-Budget confidence and a release of pent-up demand.
At Williams & Donovan, our Benfleet and Hockley estate agency teams are already seeing this early festive surge first-hand.
Why the Local Property Market Heats Up in December
Although many assume the housing market slows down for Christmas, the opposite is true in our part of Essex. We consistently see a spike in interest during December for several key reasons:
1. Pent-up demand after the autumn
Buyers who spent the autumn waiting for mortgage stability or Budget announcements are about to re-enter the market in our area.
2. Serious buyers only
While summer often brings browsing and window-shoppers, December buyers tend to be motivated and ready to move. That means stronger offers and faster sales for those looking to sell now.
3. Boxing Day bounce
Rightmove consistently reports its biggest traffic spike of the year on Boxing Day.
Many homeowners begin their property search while relaxing over Christmas, resulting in:
- Increased portal views
- Higher demand for new listings between Christmas and New Year
This makes December one of the best times to prepare your home to launch in January.
How Williams & Donovan Support Sellers Through the Festive Season
A GetAgent survey shows that most estate agents will be working through December to keep up with demand — and Williams & Donovan are no exception.
Our Benfleet and Hockley sales offices are committed to ensuring every client receives full support, even during the busiest festive days:
- Active between Christmas and New Year to take advantage of the surge in buyer enquiries
- Returning by 2nd January to handle the predictable new-year rush
This proactive approach ensures sellers don’t lose momentum at a crucial time in the market.
Why January Is One of the Best Months to Sell Your Home
January consistently ranks as one of the strongest months for the Essex property market, especially in the SS7, SS4, and SS5 area.
At Williams and Donovan, we see:
A surge in motivated buyers
Many families and couples come into the new year determined to move. Some want to upsize, others are relocating, and many want to secure a spring completion.
High demand for family homes
Properties near popular schools in Benfleet, Hockley and surrounding villages attract particular interest.
More valuation requests
Homeowners wanting to start the year fresh often choose January to request a valuation, meaning the market sees a quick increase in new listings, creating a surge in activity.
Thinking of Moving in 2026? Start Now.
If you’re considering selling your property in Benfleet, Hockley, Rayleigh or the wider SS postcode area, December and January may be the perfect time.
Williams & Donovan can help you:
- Secure an accurate property valuation
- Prepare your home for marketing
- Maximise visibility during the high-demand winter period
- Launch your property at the best possible moment, call us to book a free valuation today with our friendly local experts
- Whether it is for selling, buying, landlords or tenants letting out or renting a property, we are here to help