"Moving home at Christmas might sound like a recipe for disaster, a real raw turkey, but with the right preparation it can actually be a gift in disguise"
- Steve Foreman - The Property DriveBuy
With an average of 87,000 home sales occurring in December, Property DriveBuy has outlined practical advice for those completing moves during the festive season, a period already known for being busy and emotionally charged. While this timing can add pressure, there are also clear advantages to moving around Christmas.
Property DriveBuy analysed UK property sales data and found that 72,992 transactions were completed in December 2024, representing a 13.9% increase on the previous year. Over the last decade, an average of 87,000 property transactions have been completed in December, highlighting just how many homebuyers are likely to be navigating the moving process during the festive period.
Given the inherent stress of Christmas, adding a home move can be challenging. However, several season-specific tips can make the process smoother and more organised.
Tips for moving home during the Christmas period
1: Set a clear timeline and plan ahead
Planning is important regardless of the time of year, but it becomes crucial during the festive season. With holiday events, year-end work deadlines, and higher demand for moving services, a clear schedule helps keep the process under control. Maintaining regular communication with your estate agent, conveyancer, and removals team ensures everyone is aligned and prepared.
2: Declutter and organise your packing
Packing should be completed well in advance, especially during Christmas when free time is limited. Preparing larger items, such as furniture and appliances, at least a week before moving day can ease the final stages. A thorough decluttering effort before packing reduces stress, speeds up the process, and makes unpacking at your new home much easier.
3: Book removals well in advance
Demand for removal services intensifies during the festive period due to shorter working hours, making early bookings essential. Stay in regular contact with your removal team and consider additional services, such as packing and temporary storage, to streamline the move.
4: Consider the kids
Moving day can be difficult for children, especially during the holidays. Organising activities or child care on moving day and possibly the days surrounding it can help ensure everyone stays happy and engaged.
5: Get ahead on setting up utilities
Avoid moving in without functioning heating, gas, or WiFi. Confirm that all utilities are fully operational on move-in day, as service providers can be harder to reach during the Christmas period.
6: Complete Christmas preparations early
Finishing festive preparations beforehand—such as shopping for presents and food—reduces stress when moving day arrives. Online deliveries scheduled for move-in day can further ease the transition.
Steve Foreman, founder and CEO of Property DriveBuy, commented, "Moving home at Christmas might sound like a recipe for disaster, a real raw turkey, but with the right preparation it can actually be a gift in disguise."
"From ready-made time off to the joy of settling into a new home just in time for the holidays, there are plenty of reasons a festive move can work in your favour."
"With a clear plan and a little Christmas spirit, buyers can turn what could be a chaotic season into the perfect end to the year, and an exciting start to the next chapter."
