February is the best month to list a home for sale and of having the best chance of finding a buyer more quickly, according to analysis from UK’s biggest property website Rightmove.

The analysis looked at millions of properties listed for sale since 2012 and the trends linked to the month of listing, excluding 2020 due to the Covid pandemic.

It found that on average homes listed in February have taken 51 days to find a buyer, just ahead of March’s 52 days and level with January.

And an average of 66.4% of homes listed in February have gone on to find a buyer – the best chance of finding a buyer alongside April – just pipping second placed March’s 66.3%.

February listings are also the most likely to go on and finalise a completion of sale, and the least likely to be withdrawn by the owner from the market.

Rightmove also said March came very high on the rankings. The data highlights that those getting ready to sell at the start of spring are putting themselves in a strong position to get moving in 2024.

The number of buyers contacting agents about homes for sale is 8% higher than last year, while the number of new properties being listed by sellers is 11% higher.

Rightmove’s property expert Tim Bannister said: “The best time to get moving is the time that’s right for you – we can’t always plan or predict when a life move is needed. However, for those who are able to be a bit more flexible about when they decide to sell, the data shows typically the start of the year has been particularly strong.

“It’s also when we’ve historically seen the most buyers sending enquiries to agents, so it’s a great time for those looking to sell to make sure they are listed, their marketing is strong and they’re pricing attractively enough against other sellers.”