How Long Does a Property Spend on the Market in Reading?

When browsing property portals (Rightmove, Zoopla or On The Market), many people wonder why some Reading homes linger on the market far longer than others. It’s easy to assume there’s something wrong - an issue with the property, an inflated asking price, or a lack of interest - but that’s not always the case. Sometimes, it’s simply down to poor marketing, unrealistic expectations, or even a change in the seller's circumstances.

If you’re on the other side of the fence, currently selling a home in Reading, you’ve likely asked yourself: “Why is this taking so long?” Whether your property seems to be lingering on the market or you’re struggling to find that dream home, delays are often a natural byproduct of the property market’s ebbs and flows.

But how long is too long to wait before something changes?

Let’s face it, when your home stays unsold longer than expected, frustration sets in. Is it the market? Is the price too high? Or is there simply less demand for your type of property? If your home sits at the premium end of the market, delays are par for the course. Higher value properties have fewer buyers, meaning patience is a virtue - but even so, the right strategy can make all the difference.

One of the biggest culprits for a slow sale is overpricing. Even if you’re happy to accept a lower offer, an unrealistic asking price can stop potential buyers from even booking a viewing.

First impressions matter, and buyers compare everything they see online before deciding which properties are worth their time. The bottom line? If your price doesn’t align with the market, you’re already at a disadvantage.

The Latest Market Trends in Reading

The following data highlights how long properties in Reading have been on the market today compared to January 2024, offering insight into recent trends. This isn’t about how long it takes to sell a home but rather the current duration properties have been listed. These figures can help identify shifts in market activity and buyer demand over time.

• Detached homes in Reading - Average time on the market today is 99 days, compared to 93 days in Jan 2024.
• Semi-Detached homes in Reading - Average time on the market today is 74 days, compared to 68 days in Jan 2024.
• Terraced/Town Houses in Reading - Average time on the market today is 63 days, compared to 79 days in Jan 2024.
• Flats/Apartments in Reading - Average time on the market today is 100 days, compared to 125 days in Jan 2024.

An Interesting Reading Property Market for Buyers

The overall number of homes available in Reading (town centre plus 4 miles) has increased slightly over the past year, going from 1,134 in January 2024 to 1,267 in January 2025. However, it gets even more interesting when we split it down by property type …

Here’s the breakdown:

• Detached homes in Reading - 263 for sale in January 2025, compared to 244 - a 7.8% increase.
• Semi-Detached homes in Reading - 218 for sale in January 2025, compared to 281 - a 22.4% decrease.
• Terraced/Town Houses in Reading - 164 for sale in January 2025, compared to 139 - an 18.0% increase.
• Flats/Apartments in Reading - 542 for sale in January 2025, compared to 416 - a 30.3% increase.
• Others (Mobile Homes/Building Plots etc) in Reading - 80 for sale in January 2025, compared to 54 - a 48.1% increase.

The Importance of Presentation of Your Reading Home

Buyers today have no shortage of tools to help them browse properties on the portals meaning they can scroll through hundreds of options in a matter of minutes. The average buyer views just 4-5 homes before making a decision on which home to buy, spending barely 25 minutes in each. If your property doesn’t stand out from the crowd with top quality photos, well designed brochures, and engaging video tours, it risks being dismissed without a second thought.

It’s not just about having the right asking price - it’s about making sure your home looks and feels irresistible online. Buyers need to imagine themselves living there, and that starts with how your property is presented.

Advice for Reading Buyers: Be Proactive, Not Reactive

For buyers, finding the perfect home isn’t just about what’s on the market; it’s about being one step ahead. Did you know that around 10% of properties never make it onto the portals? Many buyers miss out on their dream homes simply because they’re relying solely on online searches. Registering directly with estate agents can give you an inside track on upcoming properties before they’re widely advertised.

Beyond that, patience is key. Finding the right property takes time, especially when you’re balancing factors like budget, location, schooling and family needs. Rushing into a decision often leads to regrets. With so much money at stake, it’s worth taking a step back and considering every option carefully.

What Does This Mean for You?

Whether you’re buying or selling, Reading’s property market continues to offer opportunities - provided you approach it with the right mindset. For sellers, the message is clear: price realistically, present professionally and ensure your home shines in a crowded market. For buyers, it’s about staying proactive, patient and ready to act when the right property comes along.

Ultimately, the Reading property market rewards those who take a considered, strategic approach. Whether your goal is to sell quickly or secure that dream home, understanding the market dynamics can help you achieve the best possible outcome.

Next week, I’ll talk about exactly how long Reading properties are taking to sell. 

If you would like to arrange an in person valuation of your home, click here: Request a Valuation | My Bespoke Agent