We know you’re probably still trying to desperately hold on to the summer, but we’re about to drop the C word! That’s right. Christmas might feel like a while away yet, but if you want to move into a new home in time for the festive period, Rightmove have warned that you need to act now.On average, from agreeing a sale to moving in takes 13 weeks, and as Christmas is just 18 weeks away prospective buyers will now be searching the market for a house to make their home in time for Santa’s arrival.To increase your odds of selling you should be proactive, not only by getting your property on the market but by ensuring you and your home are ready for those potential buyers to walk through the door.What can you do to help?First, you’ll need to book a property appraisal with an experienced member of our team; you can call us on 01633 870888 or visit us online. By ensuring your property is valued accurately for the current property market in your area, you will attract serious buyers and achieve the right price for your home. We have professional photographers, videographers, and an aerial filming/photography unit at our disposal to make sure your property stands out from the crowd during this busy time.Once your property is on the market it will be advertised on the UK’s top property portals Rightmove, Zoopla and PrimeLocation, as well as our own website and social media platforms.While we start to secure you viewings there are several things that you can do to ensure your home is looking its best.Declutter – before you clean is the perfect time to declutter. Getting rid of any unused or unwanted items in your home means that potential buyers are able to view your property without being distracted by clutter.Depersonalise – when selling, you are trying to help potential buyers envisage themselves living in your home. By clearing away any personal items and trying not to ‘typecast’ rooms, they can begin to think about where they would put their furniture and how they would use each room.Decorate – neutralising a property will appeal to buyers, and it doesn’t hurt to update any scruffy areas of your home as well as ensuring all repairs have been taken care of.Now that your home is ready for sale it’s time to look at your finances and paperwork. To avoid any unnecessary delays you should dig out any documents, such as building regs approvals, gas or electric certificates, and deeds, to have ready for your solicitor.Sale-ready sellers are attractive to potential buyers who are serious about moving. Following our advice and getting your property on the market this week will mean that you’ll be serving up the turkey and all the trimmings in your new home this Christmas.Do you have a property to sell in Caerleon, Langstone, Caldicot, Magor, Usk, Bassaleg, Rogerstone, Abergavenny, Risca, Abercarn, Maindee, St Julians or Cwmbran? To be in your new home by Christmas, contact our team today on 01633 870777. You will also find our properties for sale at http://hathways.co.uk/market/residential-sales/.