The property market in 2025 shows interesting regional variations in how quickly homes are selling. While the market has slowed compared to recent years, certain areas are still seeing rapid sales and Wigan is among them.
The Current State of the Market
Properties across the UK are currently taking an average of 37 days to sell, measured from listing to being sold subject to contract. This represents a significant change from the frenzied pace of 2020-2022, when homes were snapping up in just 22 days, and it’s notably slower than the five-year average of 30 days.
Several factors are contributing to this slowdown. Higher mortgage rates and ongoing affordability challenges have reduced buyer competition, while an increase in available properties gives purchasers more time to make their decision.
Wigan’s Position in the Fast-Selling League
Good news for local sellers: Wigan ranks 18th in the UK for speed of sale, with properties typically going under offer in just 27 days. This matches Wigan’s five-year average, showing consistent demand in the area.
The North West dominates the fastest-selling list, with six locations in the region appearing in the top 20. Carlisle leads the pack at just 21 days, followed by Copeland and Knowsley at 22 days each. Other North West entries include Chorley, Burnley and Warrington.
The Top 20 Fastest-Selling UK Markets
- Carlisle (North West) – 21 days
- Copeland (North West) – 22 days
- Knowsley (North West) – 22 days
- Sunderland (North East) – 23 days
- Gateshead (North East) – 23 days
- Chorley (North West) – 24 days
- Bedford (East of England) – 24 days
- Redditch (West Midlands) – 25 days
- Waltham Forest (London) – 26 days
- Stoke-on-Trent (West Midlands) – 26 days
- Newcastle upon Tyne (North East) – 26 days
- Harlow (East of England) – 26 days
- Rochford (East of England) – 27 days
- Barnsley (Yorkshire and The Humber) – 27 days
- North Tyneside (North East) – 27 days
- Burnley (North West) – 27 days
- Sheffield (Yorkshire and The Humber) – 27 days
- Wigan (North West) – 27 days
- Warrington (North West) – 28 days
- Reading (South East) – 28 days
Regional Variations
The North East claims the title of fastest region overall, with properties selling in an average of just 29 days. Areas like Sunderland and Gateshead combine affordability with strong demand, creating ideal conditions for quick sales.
At the other end of the spectrum, London properties take the longest to sell at 45 days on average. Kensington and Chelsea holds the unenviable position of slowest market in the country, with homes taking 70 days to go under offer. The South West and South East are also experiencing slower sales, with properties taking more than 10 days longer than the national average to find buyers.
Market Trends and Changes
Some areas have seen significant shifts in their selling speeds. Maldon, Eden and Copeland are all selling homes approximately 4 days faster than their five-year average – a welcome development for sellers but a challenge for buyers who need to act quickly.
Conversely, the Isle of Wight and Mole Valley are experiencing notable slowdowns, with properties taking up to 22 days longer to sell compared to their historical average.
Why Selling Speed Matters
Understanding how quickly homes sell in your area provides valuable insights for both buyers and sellers.
For sellers: Knowing the average selling time helps you plan your move and set realistic expectations. Faster sales often indicate strong demand, which can support your asking price. In areas like Wigan where homes sell relatively quickly, you can price competitively with confidence that buyer interest exists.
For buyers: Time-to-sell data reveals how much competition you’re facing. In faster-moving markets like Wigan, you’ll need to have your finances arranged and be ready to move quickly when you find the right property. In slower markets, you have more negotiating power and time to consider your options.
The Complete Journey: From Listing to Moving In
It’s important to remember that the 37-day average only covers the period from listing to accepting an offer. After your offer is accepted, there’s still considerable work to do:
- Conveyancing and mortgage application: This typically takes 3-4 weeks, though it can be longer if you’re part of a chain
- Exchange of contracts: The point at which both parties are legally committed to the sale
- Completion: Usually 1-3 weeks after exchange, when keys are handed over and you can move in
The entire process from listing to completion typically takes 3-4 months, though this varies considerably depending on individual circumstances.
What This Means for the Wigan Property Market
Wigan’s appearance in the top 20 fastest-selling markets reflects the area’s strong fundamentals. The combination of relatively affordable prices, good transport links, and proximity to Manchester makes it an attractive option for buyers.
For local sellers, this data suggests that realistic pricing will generate interest relatively quickly. Properties that are priced appropriately for the market are typically attracting offers within four weeks.
For buyers in the Wigan area, it’s worth noting that you’re operating in a reasonably competitive market. Having your mortgage agreement in principle arranged and being ready to move quickly when you find the right property will give you an advantage.
Looking Ahead
As we move through 2025, the property market continues to adjust to higher borrowing costs and economic uncertainty. While the market has cooled from the frenetic pace of 2020-2022, areas with strong local demand – like Wigan – continue to see steady activity.
For anyone considering selling in the Wigan area, current conditions favour realistic pricing and presentation. With homes typically selling within a month, the market remains relatively efficient for well-prepared sellers.
If you’re thinking about selling your home in Wigan or the surrounding areas, understanding these market dynamics can help you make informed decisions about timing and pricing. While every property is unique, knowing that the average sale takes around 27 days locally provides a useful benchmark for your planning.
Considering selling your home in Wigan? Get in touch for a free, no-obligation valuation and expert advice on the current market conditions in your area.