10 Top Tips for Selling Your Home During the School Half-Term Holidays in England and Wales
Selling your home is always a bit of a juggling act, but throw in the school half-term holidays and it can feel like an impossible mission!
With the kids at home, keeping things tidy, scheduling viewings and maintaining your sanity might seem overwhelming. But don’t worry, it’s totally doable with a little planning.
If you’re selling a home in England or Wales, there are a few extra things to keep in mind. Estate agents and buyers will have their own schedules, local attractions might be busier and you’ll need to work around the school break to keep your home viewing-ready.
So how do you balance family life with selling your home? Here are 10 top tips to make the process as smooth as possible.
1. Plan Open Days and Viewing Slots
Half-term can be hectic so get ahead by scheduling viewings in a way that works for your family. If possible, arrange an open day—a single slot for multiple viewings—which not only makes life easier for you but can also create a sense of urgency among buyers.
If an open day isn’t an option, set specific viewing slots that fit around your schedule. For example, if your little one naps from 1–2:30 PM, mark that time as unavailable. Estate agents in England and Wales are used to working around family life so don’t be afraid to set boundaries.
2. Arrange Viewings for When You Can Be Out
The easiest way to keep your home looking spotless? Not being in it! Plan some half-term outings for the kids when viewings are scheduled. A trip to the library, a park or a National Trust property is a great way to keep them entertained while ensuring your home stays in tip-top shape.
If possible, book activities in advance especially for popular attractions in England and Wales, which can get busy during school holidays.
3. Set Clear Boundaries with Older Children
If you have older kids, make sure they know when viewings are happening. The last thing you want is for a potential buyer to walk into a teenager’s bedroom only to find them gaming or music blaring!
Encourage older children to plan their own outings or visit a friend’s house during key viewing times.
4. Get Teenagers Out of Bed!
Speaking of teenagers, they need to be up and about before a viewing. A half-asleep teen buried under the duvet isn’t the best first impression.
In England and Wales where space is a major selling point, bedrooms need to feel bright, airy and inviting. So make sure all beds are made, curtains are open and floors are clear before buyers arrive.
5. Give Yourself Time to Prepare
A quick tidy-up before a viewing can make all the difference, but trying to do it whilst the kids are running around? Not ideal. If possible, ask a friend, neighbour or grandparent to take them out for an hour so you can do a final once-over.
If that’s not an option, look into local playgroups or holiday clubs—they can be a lifesaver!
6. Use Storage Tubs for Quick Tidying
Toys, books and craft supplies: half-term means extra clutter. Invest in some stylish storage tubs to make quick tidy-ups easier. Just chuck everything in, pop the lid on and you’re done!
Bonus tip: Buyers in England and Wales love seeing clever storage solutions so showing how well-organised your home is can actually be a selling point.
7. Create a 'Viewing Day Toy Box'
Keep things simple by setting aside a special toy box for viewing days—something with a few quiet, easy-to-pack-away toys.
Rotating books or toys from the local library is also a great way to keep little ones entertained without adding to the clutter.
8. Prepare Meals in Advance
Cooking during viewings means extra mess, lingering food smells and more washing up—no thanks! Instead, prep meals ahead of time. Sandwiches, picnic lunches or one-pot meals that only need reheating are great options.
And if you can, avoid strong-smelling foods like fish or anything overly spicy. You don’t want buyers associating your home with last night’s curry!
9. Always Make the Beds
A well-made bed can instantly transform a bedroom, making it feel bigger, neater and more inviting. And yes, this applies to the kids' rooms too.
Make it fun by turning bed-making into a game of ‘who can do it the fastest?' (Spoiler: probably you, but at least they’ll try!)
10. Accept Help When Offered
If friends or family offer to take the kids for a bit, say yes. Selling a home is a team effort and a little extra help can make all the difference.
Check if your local holiday clubs or community groups offer short-term childcare during school breaks—it could be just the break you need.
Final thoughts: Half-term doesn’t have to mean chaos when selling your home. With a little preparation, some clever planning and maybe a well-timed day out, you can keep your home looking its best whilst still enjoying the school break.
And if you need a hand getting your home market-ready, you know where we are! Get in touch today to see how we can help.