Millions of people are expected to start their search for a new home over the festive period, according to Axminster-based estate agency Fox and Sons.

The team in Axminster is urging homeowners who are thinking of moving in the New Year to instruct an agent today and capitalise on the seasonal surge of buyer interest.

Data from Rightmove and Zoopla – widely regarded as the most popular property websites – shows that year on year, they receive a huge spike in activity during the festive season.

Last year, Rightmove received more than 35 million visits during the festive break alone, and Zoopla registered 36 per cent more site visits.

With the demand for homes at a historic high, Fox and Sons fully expects this year to be just as busy.

Beth Clarke, branch manager at Fox and Sons, said: "The festive season is often thought to be a quiet time for family and friends, however, as the figures show, this is also a time when homeowners start to make plans for a new home in the new year.

"With this in mind, and with the current high demand for homes, we believe there is no better time to sell your property!"

Following Rightmove and Zoopla's encouraging data, sellers are urged to beat the rush this year and not wait until after Christmas to put their property onto the market.

It is one of the most opportune periods of the year, given the extra security this winter, and it is hoped to continue into early 2022.

"The idea of a thriving housing market can give many buyers the confidence to move if they have been putting it off for a while," continues Beth.

"We have a unique, tried and tested marketing approach to ensure our customers' properties stand out and receive maximum exposure, especially in the already booming market.

"We advise customers wishing to benefit from the extra online activity and Christmas magic to get in touch with us soon as possible so we can help."

If you have a property to sell and would like to arrange a free market appraisal on your home, contact Fox and Sons on 01297 32323 or email [email protected]

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