Christmas gifts for homebuyers

CHRISTMAS is the season to be jolly if you're looking to buy a new home, or at least the months leading up to the festive season are - especially if you've already sold your property and are ready to move.

- By Deborah Stone

Why's that? Well, most people will only put their home up for sale in autumn if they really need to move, or they wouldn't be messing up their countdown to Christmas and, similarly, the majority of those booking viewings are what estate agents call "serious" buyers.

Combine that with the current lull in property prices and this really is the perfect time to buy. It's even better if you're interested in a new-build.

Many developers introduce incentives to buyers this time of year to boost sales and meet end-of-year targets - so look out for offers such as contributions towards stamp duty, deposits, legal fees or just extras such as carpets or flooring.