The Basingstoke housing market, like many others, has experienced a notable shift in 2023.
The percentage of home sales agreed and moved (completed) compared to those withdrawn from the market unsold has decreased relative to 2022.
Looking at independent data for the Basingstoke area (RG21-RG24) …
In 2022, 75.0% of properties that left the books of Basingstoke estate agents agreed a sale, exchanged contracts, and the owners moved home
(2,091 Basingstoke area properties exchanged and completed vs 708 properties that withdrew from the agent’s books, unsold).
In 2023, 63.7%of properties that have left the books of Basingstoke estate agents agreed a sale, exchanged contracts, and the owners moved home
(1,513 Basingstoke area properties exchanged and completed vs 862 properties that withdrew from the agent’s books, unsold up to the 20th December 2023), meaning there has been a …
15.1% proportional reduction in the saleability ofBasingstoke homes between 2022 and 2023
It’s interesting to compare that with the South East regional and national stats for both years.
In the South East, 63.46% of properties were exchanged, completed, and moved in 2022, compared to 47.54% in 2023, a drop of 25.1%. Nationally, 65.55% of properties were exchanged, completed, and moved in 2022 compared to 52.39% in 2023, a decline of 20.1%.
This could raise concerns among Basingstoke homeowners and potential sellers. As a seasoned estate agent in Basingstoke, I have observed these trends closely and offer insights into this phenomenon and strategies to enhance your home’s saleability in 2024.
Understanding the dip in saleability in Basingstoke
Economic Influences: much like the rest of the UK, Basingstoke has been subject to financial pressures such as inflation and Bank of England interest rate increases. These factors have affected buyer affordability, leading to a more cautious approach to home purchasing.
Market Saturation and Buyer’s Market: 2023 saw a surge in Basingstoke properties on the market. This increase changed the Basingstoke property market from a strong seller’s market to a balanced market or even a buyer’s market in some parts of Basingstoke throughout 2023, where the availability of choices led to a more selective purchasing behaviour.
Changing Buyer Preferences: In Basingstoke, buyer preferences have evolved. There’s a growing demand for properties that offer flexible living spaces, energy efficiency, and modern amenities, which not all available homes meet.
Local Economic and Social Factors: Basingstoke’s local economic and social developments, such as job market shifts and community developments, have also played a role in influencing the housing market dynamics.
Six tips to maximising your Basingstoke home’s saleability in 2024
Basingstoke properties are still selling, yet not at the rate they were in 2021 and 2022.
Just under 13 out of 20 Basingstoke people in 2023 have sold and moved (i.e. the 63.7% figure mentioned above). If you want to avoid being in the 7 out of 20 Basingstoke people who were unable to sell and move this year, there are some things that you can do to stack the cards in your favour.
To start with, the saleability levels in Basingstoke in 2023 are very similar to the saleability rates between 2014 and 2019.
- Strategic Pricing: Understanding the Basingstoke market is critical. Homes priced correctly from the outset are more likely to attract serious buyers. This requires a deep understanding of the local market trends, something a knowledgeable estate agent can provide.
- Tailoring to Buyer Preferences: Align your Basingstoke home with current trends. This could mean investing in creating flexible work-from-home spaces, upgrading energy systems, or modernising key areas like kitchens and bathrooms. However, before you start spending tens of thousands of pounds on this, please do pick up the phone so I can give you the best advice for the type of property you own in Basingstoke. I have lost count of the number of times I’ve seen a Basingstoke homeowner spend money on the wrong things without advice, only to find the money they spent did nothing for the value of their home nor made it more saleable.
- Effective Marketing: Utilise a comprehensive marketing strategy that includes high-quality photography, possibly virtual tours, and leveraging online social media and portals. As experts in the Basingstoke property market, we can target the correct demographic and present your home in its best light.
- Preparing for Viewings: First impressions matter. Ensure your Basingstoke home is well-presented, clean, and decluttered. We can offer personalised advice on the presentation of your home to appeal to potential buyers.
- Flexibility and Negotiation: Be prepared for negotiation and show flexibility in terms of viewing times and conditions of sale. This approach can make your property more appealing compared to others on the market.
- Capitalising on Local Knowledge: Basingstoke’s unique charm and amenities should be highlighted. As a local market expert in the town, I can help showcase these aspects effectively to potential buyers.
The decrease in the saleability rate in Basingstoke reflects broader economic trends and evolving buyer preferences. However, with the right approach and strategies, selling your home in 2024 can be a realistic and successful endeavour.
By understanding the Basingstoke market, pricing strategically, aligning with buyer preferences, and utilising effective marketing and presentation techniques, you can significantly enhance your chances of a successful sale.
As a Basingstoke property market expert, I offer more than just transactional advice; I provide insights into what makes our local Basingstoke market tick. By partnering with a knowledgeable estate agent, you can confidently navigate these challenging times and maximise your chances of a successful home sale in 2024.
