Every year, without fail, property searches surge by 50% on Boxing Day. That’s not just hearsay – it’s backed by Google Trends data. This phenomenon, known as the ‘Boxing Day Bounce,’ builds momentum throughout the week after Christmas and continues well into January. It’s such a significant trend that major property portals like Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket see a spike in activity, with many buyers and sellers taking their first steps in the property market at this time. But what’s behind this annual spike in interest? Let’s explore.
Why the Surge?
There are plenty of theories floating around. Some suggest it’s due to post-festivity divorces, others claim it’s grown-up children desperate to move out after a tense holiday season with their parents, and some think it’s simply people wanting a fresh start for the new year. The reality, though, is a mix of all these reasons – and none of them.
The Boxing Day Bounce primarily happens because Christmas Day is the one day of the year when people are least likely to be online house-hunting. Instead, they’re spending time with family, opening gifts, and enjoying festive meals. By Boxing Day, with the celebrations winding down, people are back online, scrolling through property listings while sipping on leftover mulled wine.
A January Surge
What makes the Boxing Day Bounce so important isn’t just the surge in activity on the day itself. It marks the start of a property market upswing that gathers pace throughout January.
Insights from property portals highlight this trend. Rightmove, for instance, often reports record-breaking traffic on Boxing Day and in the days that follow. Similarly, Zoopla’s data shows a significant uplift in activity, and OnTheMarket has also noted increased engagement from serious buyers and sellers during this period.
Who’s Browsing?
Boxing Day property hunters come from all walks of life, but data shows that one in four of them are aged 25-34. This key demographic often consists of first-time buyers (FTBs), many of whom are spurred into action by rising rental costs.
Consumer surveys from Rightmove and Zoopla suggest that this trend will continue, with 40% of those planning to move in the next two years identifying as first-time buyers. Second-home movers make up the next largest group, with both demographics looking for value for money amidst rising interest rates.
Expanding Search Horizons
As buyers adapt to higher mortgage rates, many are expanding their property searches. In the South of England, for example, the average search radius has grown from 4.3 miles to over 10 miles as buyers look further afield for more affordable options. Across portals like Rightmove and OnTheMarket, search filters are being adjusted to include broader locations, reflecting this growing trend.
The focus for 2024 is clear: value for money. Buyers are prioritizing properties that offer the best price and space for their budget, and sellers need to position their homes strategically to attract attention.
What Does This Mean for Sellers?
For homeowners considering selling, the Boxing Day Bounce presents an excellent opportunity to capture the attention of motivated buyers. The surge in online activity means that listings going live in late December and early January benefit from increased visibility and engagement.
If you’re thinking about selling, now is the time to prepare your property for the market. High-quality photos, accurate descriptions, and strategic pricing will ensure your home stands out during this busy period. Make sure your property is featured on multiple portals like Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket to maximize exposure.
Final Thoughts
So, is the Boxing Day Bounce a truth or a myth? The data speaks for itself: it’s very real. It’s not just a momentary surge but the beginning of a sustained period of heightened activity in the property market. For buyers and sellers alike, Boxing Day signals the start of a new chapter, making it the perfect time to take the next step in your property journey.
If you’re ready to make your move, Hattons Estate Agents is here to help you. We already have multiple properties launching to the market this boxing day! Get in touch with us today to start planning your next move.
