Does the Property Market Really Pick Up in September?

The September Surge – Fact or Fiction?

Data does show a seasonal uptick. According to Rightmove, asking prices have risen in September in all but three years since 2001, with a typical increase of around 0.6% month-on-month.

But it’s not just prices. Listings also rise as soon as September begins. Rightmove reports that the number of new properties coming to market in the first week of September is often about 12% higher than the August weekly average. Buyer demand responds too, with enquiries and viewings spiking as house-hunters get back to business.

The reasons are straightforward: people return from holidays, routines are restored, and buyers who want to move before Christmas set themselves a deadline… nothing like a bit of pressure to sharpen the mind!

What the Numbers Show

Last September (2024) provides a good example. Asking prices climbed by 0.8% – stronger than the long-term seasonal average – and the national average asking price reached £370,759.

Locally, the Twickenham and Teddington market is also showing resilience. Now, at the tail-end of August 2025, there are 532 homes listed for sale – down from more than 600 at the start of the month, which means that as buyers return in September, competition will feel greater. 

Just over 400 homes are already sold subject to contract, meaning that effectively, getting on for half of the market is under offer. Data shows that the average asking price across Twickenham now sits just above £770,000.

This combination of reduced supply and steady demand points to a market that remains active and competitive.

Why September Works for Sellers

Several factors explain why autumn is such a productive season for the housing market:

• End of holiday distractions: Families who pressed pause over the summer pick up their plans once school starts again.
• Pre-Christmas push: Buyers in September and October want to be in a new home by Christmas, and sellers feel there’s just enough time to make it happen.
• Kerb appeal: Homes and gardens still look good in early autumn, with bright colours and good natural light for photos and viewings.
• Market sentiment: September often feels like a “fresh start” for many people, and with mortgage rates stabilising after the recent base rate cut, affordability has improved a little compared to earlier in the year.

What Twickenham & Teddington Homeowners Should Do Now

If you’re considering selling, here are some practical steps to take:

1. Take advantage of demand
Buyer activity is climbing. Listing now means you can benefit from motivated buyers who want to complete before year end. Waiting until late autumn risks running into the seasonal slowdown.

2. Be realistic on price
Yes, prices often tick upwards in September, but overpricing is still risky. Over a third of UK homes on the market have had price reductions recently, with average cuts of around 6%. Work with your agent to set a sensible asking price that attracts serious buyers quickly.

3. Polish your home’s autumn appeal
Keep gardens tidy, sweep fallen leaves, and make sure your home feels bright and welcoming for viewings. As evenings draw in, good lighting indoors becomes increasingly important.

4. Be prepared
Get your paperwork organised and a solicitor instructed early. A proactive approach can make the difference between securing a buyer this side of Christmas, or not.

5. Rely on local insight
National trends provide the backdrop, but every neighbourhood behaves differently. A local agent with Twickenham experience will know what’s selling, what buyers are looking for, and how best to present your home.

The Bigger Picture

While September is a strong month for activity, spring still delivers the biggest annual surge. That said, September’s spike can be one of the best opportunities outside springtime for sellers to find motivated buyers.

With mortgage rates expected to ease further into 2026, some sellers may hold out for spring. But for those ready to move now, the coming weeks offer a window of opportunity.

Final Thoughts

September is more than just the end of summer holidays – it’s a turning point in the property market. For Twickenham and Teddington homeowners, the combination of renewed buyer motivation, fewer competing listings, and improving mortgage conditions makes early autumn a smart time to act.

If you’re considering a move, make the most of this seasonal momentum. With realistic pricing, good preparation, and the right local advice, you could secure a buyer while the market is buzzing – and perhaps even move before the year is out.

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