Why waiting until autumn to list might cost you more than you think

Most sellers assume autumn is a safer bet when listing their home. Cooler weather, buyers returning from holiday, and a sense of getting things done before Christmas. Makes sense, right?
 
 But in our experience across the Costa Tropical and southern Granada, autumn isn’t always the golden window people expect it to be.
 
 In fact, it can cost you money—especially if you’re selling a cortijo, finca, or rural home.
 
 Here’s why listing now (rather than waiting) could be the smarter move.
 
 Fewer distractions = more serious buyers
 
 Late spring and summer often attract buyers who are already actively planning a relocation or second home purchase. They’re not just browsing while bored at work—they’re flying in, viewing properties, and making offers.
 
 By the time autumn comes around, many of those buyers have already found their dream property… or postponed their plans.
 
 In July and August, we’ve consistently seen an uptick in viewings and offers—especially from international buyers trying to beat school start dates or secure something before the Christmas rush.
 
 Longer daylight = better presentation
 
 Photos and video matter. A lot. And nothing flatters your property more than golden evening light, blue skies, and blooming gardens.
 
 If you wait until September or October, you’re dealing with shorter days, fading landscapes, and potentially more unpredictable weather.
 
 That might not sound like a big deal—but for a property that relies on outdoor space, natural surroundings, or beautiful views, the right lighting can be the difference between average interest and a premium offer.
 
 Early momentum counts
 
 The first 30 days are key to getting strong interest. But in autumn, you’re not only competing with more listings returning to market—you’re also entering a period when many buyers begin to hesitate.
 
 In October, we often hear, “Let’s wait until January to decide.” And suddenly, your property has been sitting unsold for 90+ days, even if it’s fantastic.
 
 In contrast, launching in July or August means you capitalise on current demand. Even if the transaction completes later in the year, you’ve locked in that early interest and avoided the “what’s wrong with it?” stage.
 
 Autumn is good—but not for everything
 
 To be clear, we do sell plenty of homes in the autumn. And it can work brilliantly for certain types of properties and price points.
 
 But if your home is in the €350,000–€750,000 range, especially if it has outdoor appeal or caters to international buyers, summer gives you a stronger launchpad.
 
 Timing isn’t everything—but it makes a difference
 
 At Hola Properties, we’ve helped hundreds of sellers choose the right moment to go live—and we’ve seen how small shifts in timing can make big differences in price and speed.
 
 If you’re thinking of selling, don’t wait for the “ideal” season. Get personalised advice now and we’ll help you launch with confidence—whenever the time is right.
 
 ▶️ Read more tips for sellers here
 
 📞 Contact Hola Properties today on 0034 858 215 333 or visit www.holaproperties.com
 
 You don’t need to wait. You just need the right plan.
 

You can also watch our advice videos here