WINTER is an ideal time to wrap up a house sale, says nationwide estate agents Humberts.

The company - whose offices include Windermere, Mayfair and Wiltshire - says it received the highest number of new instructions since 2013 in October and November.

Darren Barlow, from the Lake District branch, said: "Winter is often viewed as a favourable time to sell a property as there tends to be less competition, and more committed, serious buyers are looking to find their dream home.

"We’ve got a backlog of buyers looking for investment and holiday properties in particular and there is certainly a healthy appetite for a quick move before the spring."

The company shared its five tips for winter sales:

1 With lower volumes of properties on agents’ books and property portals, this is a good time to maximise exposure.

2. Make your home as inviting as possible by lighting fires and candles.

3. If viewers love your property in poor weather, they are likely to love it even more in the sun. Buyers are eager to proceed quickly when they find what they are looking for.

4. Take advantage of evening viewings if you have a special night-time view, and make sure the house is well-lit outside.

5. Lastly, be prepared to move fast and have the paperwork ready.

For more, call 015394-82692 or visit www.humberts.com