The time of year that you put your home on the market could affect how well your property sells. In winter, buyers would pay more for fireplaces, insulation and underfloor heating.

• Buyers can be swayed by seasonal features depending on when they’re buying
• Winter buyers prioritise warmth, so would pay more for a fireplace and insulation
• Summer buyers are drawn to gardens, pools and air conditioning when purchasing

Thinking of putting your home on the market? The time of year you do it could affect how well your property sells.

It’s all in the timing

It appears that buyers can be swayed by particular features depending on the season they’re purchasing in. A survey of 1,000 UK homeowners* found that, in the winter months, 41% would pay more for energy-efficient features. Also, 38% would increase their budget for a traditional fireplace and a quarter (26%) would be convinced by a kitchen with an AGA-style cooker.

A similar trend occurs in summer, with nearly half (49%) saying they would pay more for a home with a garden or air conditioning. The same proportion (48%) would be swayed by a property with a swimming pool during the hot weather.

The desirable winter features

So, as we prepare for winter, which cosy features could contribute the most value to your home? A fireplace is the most sought after, increasing a property’s value by an average of £4,568. This is closely followed by good insulation (£4,356) and underfloor heating (£3,985), showing that warmth takes priority for winter buyers.

*Zoopla, 2025

As a mortgage is secured against your home or property, it could be repossessed if you do not keep up mortgage repayments.