Selling Your Home During the Summer Holidays: How to Manage with Kids at Home
The summer holidays can feel like both a blessing and a challenge. Your children are finally getting a well-earned break after a long school term—but if you’re also in the middle of selling your home, those six weeks can feel endless. The house needs to stay clean, tidy, and ready for viewings, but how do you do that with kids underfoot?
At Alasdair Morrison & Mundys, your trusted estate agents in Newark and Southwell, we understand the difficulties families face during the school holidays. If you’re wondering whether to delay your move until September, we’re here to show you how to stay on the market—and sane—this summer.
1. Embrace Summer Camps
Summer holiday clubs or local activity camps are perfect for keeping children entertained during working hours. Sports, crafts, and games can keep them busy for hours, giving you valuable time to clean, prep for viewings, or simply breathe.
2. Try a Childcare Swap
Team up with a friend or neighbour for a childcare exchange. You take their kids for a day or two, and they return the favour. It’s an affordable way to get a few quiet days when you need to prepare the house for viewings.
3. Use Incentives for Tidy Rooms
Getting your children involved in the sale process can make a big difference. Incentivise them to keep their bedrooms tidy—whether that’s through pocket money, extra screen time, or summer treats. A tidy room is one less thing to stress about before a last-minute viewing.
4. Set Specific Viewing Days
Speak with your agent (ideally, us!) to set one or two specific days each week for property viewings. This structure allows you to plan ahead and avoids the pressure of keeping the home perfect 24/7. Early morning or late afternoon slots often work best with children.
5. Avoid Messy Activities
Save the glitter and glue for after the move. Instead, opt for easy-clean activities like garden games, books, or film afternoons. The less mess, the easier your life will be when viewers arrive.
6. Be Realistic—And Honest
Remember, most buyers viewing family homes will have children of their own. They understand toys, chaos, and half-eaten bowls of cereal. Don’t panic if everything isn’t perfect. Authenticity can actually be relatable and reassuring to potential buyers.
7. Use Your Kids as Helpers
If your children are old enough, they can be part of the viewing process—especially if potential buyers are bringing their own kids. A friendly welcome and a quick garden game can help other families envision themselves living happily in your home.
Don’t Delay Your Move
Waiting until September might feel tempting, but delaying marketing your property could push your actual move months down the line. The conveyancing process can take 10–12 weeks or more, so the sooner you accept an offer, the better.
If you’re planning to sell your home in Newark, Southwell, or surrounding villages this summer, our team at Alasdair Morrison & Mundys can guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today for expert advice on how to sell your property this summer—without letting the school holidays hold you back.
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