A study conducted by Quick Move Now, a prominent player in the property scene, has revealed that on average, a property in the UK takes about 16 viewings before it finds its new owner. This statistic is a vital insight for both sellers and buyers, highlighting the journey a property undertakes before changing hands.

The number of viewings needed before a sale varies significantly across regions. For instance, in the bustling streets of Greater London, sellers might have to host up to 27 viewings before striking a deal. Contrastingly, in the West Midlands, the number is considerably lower, averaging just nine viewings. This regional disparity sheds light on the diverse dynamics at play in different parts of the UK.

Viewings and Market Time

Danny Luke, the managing director of Quick Move Now, offers a deeper understanding of what these numbers mean. “A higher number of viewings doesn’t always equate to a longer time on the market,” he explains. Properties that are more desirable might rack up five or more viewings in a single weekend, while less appealing ones might see only one or two in a week. This pace significantly affects how long a property remains on the market.

First Impressions Count

The initial period when a property is listed is crucial. To maximise this window of opportunity, Luke emphasises the need for a proactive estate agent who thoroughly understands the target market and local area. Equally important is the quality of property images. With many buyers setting up online alerts for new listings, captivating property photography becomes a key factor in attracting attention and encouraging viewings.

Across England and Wales, the average property remained on the market for about 115 days. This duration offers a perspective on the general pace of the housing market in these regions.

Viewings Over the Years

Comparing the current scenario with previous years, there’s a slight fluctuation in the number of viewings needed. In 2022, the average was 17 viewings, similar to the pre-pandemic level in 2019. The two years before that saw a steady average of 18 viewings. These figures suggest a relatively stable trend over the past few years.

Pricing Strategies

Luke advises caution and strategy when pricing properties, especially considering the current market dynamics. With higher interest rates affecting buyer affordability, competitive pricing becomes crucial. He warns against the temptation of setting an ambitious initial price, as this often leads to a longer time on the market and subsequent price reductions. In fact, last August witnessed the highest level of property price reductions in at least nine years. A competitively priced property from the start is less likely to become ‘stale’ on the market and is more likely to achieve a favorable sale price.