September remains one of the busiest months in the housing market, and for good reason.

With kids heading back to school, milder weather making for more pleasant viewing conditions, and a surge in available stock, many buyers and sellers see September as the ideal time to make a move.

However, while the season has its perks, it also comes with hidden costs, tighter timelines, and potential hold-ups, all of which can add pressure to an already high-stakes process.

James Enos, National Account Manager at Hodge Bank, shares his top advice for buyers looking to move this Autumn, and how to avoid common mistakes that could delay, or even derail, a sale.

1. Don’t View Before You’re Mortgage-Ready

“One of the biggest mistakes we see is buyers finding a dream home before sorting out their mortgage. In a competitive summer market, that delay can mean losing the property altogether.

Our recommendation is getting a mortgage agreement in principle before booking viewings, as this helps clarify budget and shows agents and sellers that you’re serious.

Make sure your paperwork, including ID, proof of income, and deposit, is ready to go. That preparation can speed up your offer and reduce the chance of delays down the line.”

2. Hidden Costs Can Catch Buyers Out

“While most buyers focus on saving for a deposit, the additional costs of moving often go under the radar, especially in peak season.

September is a popular time to move, and that demand often comes with a higher price tag. From removals and storage to solicitors and surveys, costs can stack up fast

We always encourage buyers to factor in a contingency fund, as iIt gives you a buffer for unexpected delays or last-minute costs, which are more common than people think, particularly in September.”

3. Expect Delays and Plan Around Them

“Even though the weather may be ideal, September can bring complications behind the scenes. Staff holidays across estate agencies, lenders, and legal firms can slow down processes, a detail many buyers overlook.

If you’re working to a specific timeline, like getting settled before school starts, it’s vital to communicate that clearly from the outset, but if you have flexibility, consider whether a November move might be smoother. There’s often more availability and less market congestion.”

While moving house is never without stress, a well-planned September move can be a rewarding step, especially for those who take a proactive approach.

“Moving is one of life’s biggest financial decisions, the more groundwork you do now, the more confident and in control you’ll feel when the time comes to pick up the keys.”