An expert shares her expertise with a range of hacks for buying and selling.

It’s spring cleaning time. Make space for new items while getting rid of unwanted ones.

But getting your timing right when buying and selling can be essential.

After all, if you’re buying, you want to make sure you get the pick of the products, and if you’re selling, you’ll want to get as many eyes on your advert as possible.

Based on data from millions of Gumtree listings, Hannah Rouch, a second-hand expert at the platform, reveals the best times to bag a bargain and insights that could help you make the most money for items no longer needed.

Firstly, she suggests buyers start their search in the morning.

Listings peak between 9 am and 11 am on weekends. Search early for the best selection.

If you spot a few potential options, there’s also no harm in negotiating. Be polite while messaging and accept a “no” gracefully if the seller is unwilling to negotiate on the price.

Rouch adds: “Most sellers expect a little bartering when selling second-hand, mainly when many similar items are available.

“The Gumtree categories with the highest supply include sofas, beds, baby toys, bikes, wardrobes and tables.”

It could also be worth discovering what else the seller will likely be listing.

Rouch says: “If you like a person’s style, don’t be afraid to ask what else they might be selling. It’s a great way to snag items before they are listed publicly.”

If you plan to sell some items in the months ahead, Rouch suggests being methodical when going around the home to identify what you could sell.

She says: “By going through each room, you can identify items you no longer need but could sell and what’s missing from your home.

“When decluttering, be systematic, asking yourself if you still like and use the item and whether it’s in working order.”

Rouch also suggests making the most of peak times when buyers search for items.

She suggests listing items for sale between 3 pm and 8 pm on Saturday or Sunday, adding, “This time frame is when we see the most searches on Gumtree.”

Don’t forget to put plenty of details in your ad, such as any measurements, the condition of the item, and whether it might need any repairs.

Also, remember to monitor your messages and be prepared to answer any buyers’ questions. A prompt reply may help you seal the deal and reduce the risk of the potential buyer slipping away and going elsewhere.

Early evening is a time when buyers often want details, Rouch explains.

“Replies to ads on Gumtree peak between 4pm to 6pm on a Saturday, Sunday and Monday,” she says.

“Watch your emails around this time to quickly answer your buyer’s questions and secure your sale.”

When deciding what to sell, it’s also worth considering the items likely to be in demand with buyers.

Rouch says: “Sell what people are most looking for to secure speedy sales at top market rates. We’re seeing massive demand for mobile phones, games consoles, televisions and kitchen appliances – so if you have any of these items they are likely to sell quickly.”

You could also consider selling a bundle of similar items—baby clothes and toys or items for buyers looking to makeover their garden this spring.

Rouch suggests: “Buyers are often looking for multiple purchases, so if you have several items to sell – for example, garden toys, outdoor furniture, and a lawnmower – list them simultaneously.

“You might get one buyer willing to take the lot, or you can offer to bundle the items together for a lower cost for a quick sale.”

Remember that demand for certain items can vary depending on the time of year.

People may be thinking of warmer weather and buying things to enjoy in the coming months.

Gumtree looked for the items with searches above their yearly average between April and June.

Sales of garden furniture and outdoor items like sandpits, gazebos, paddling pools, and barbecues increased during certain months.

Demand for sporting items such as inflatable kayaks, paddleboards, and golf equipment is also surging.

Summer means people plan camping trips and staycations, leading to increased demand for roof boxes and tents.

When spring cleaning, others are also updating homes for gyms or babies.

Rouch notes high demand for gym equipment and large baby items like nursery furniture and prams.

“Plus, kitchen appliances such as microwaves and fridge freezers are high on buyers’ want lists, too.”