A property sector consumer group claims that prospective sellers will need to have their property on the market by tomorrow in order to sell before Christmas.

Data from the HomeOwners Alliance says the time to sell in 2024 has been slower than the long run average with the time to sell averaging 67 days so far this year.

With the nine year average indicating it takes 59 days on average to sell, homeowners need to list no later than October 23 if they want a sale by the last Friday before Christmas.

Paula Higgins, chief executive of that HomeOwners Alliance, says: “With the wintry weather blowing in and shorter days already, it’s only a matter of time before thoughts turn to Christmas planning. If you have moving house on your 2024 to-do list, then there is still time.”

“Invite three of the best local estate agents to value your property, check out their performance and reviews and carefully read the terms of their contract. When you’ve selected your favourite, instruct them to list your home on the main property portals before the 23rd of October to be in with a chance of selling before Christmas.”

The HomeOwners Alliance have five tips to speed up your sale:

1.  Find a great estate agent. A good starting point is Best Estate Agent Finder, which ranks your local estate agents by how successful they are at selling homes like yours quickly and at asking price. You can also compare their customer reviews before inviting them to do a house visit and provide a valuation.

2. Get the best deal. Before you sign on the dotted line, check the terms of the estate agent’s contract carefully.

3.  Set up your solicitor. Instruct a conveyancing solicitor early and start pulling paperwork together now if you want to secure a quick sale.

4.  Get your house ready for sale. If there are any issues that might come up in a survey and delay the move, consider fixing them now. And as the winter months approach, make sure your home doesn’t look too dark and cold. That doesn’t mean you have to spend a fortune – think about how to lighten things up with lamps, candles and mirrors.

5.  Choose the right buyer – everyone wants to get the best price, but if you want to sell quickly as well, then opt for a chain-free buyer (such as a first time or cash buyer) who isn’t relying on selling their home to buy yours.