Scrolling property portals is useful, but registering with an estate agency can give buyers a more personal, proactive search experience, especially when the right home is about to come to market.

Buyers have plenty to compare this autumn, which makes the way a home enters the market increasingly important. A strong first impression, realistic price and thoughtful presentation can all help attract the right attention.

A fresh coat of paint can help, but missing paperwork can delay a sale for months. Use August to prepare the information buyers and solicitors will need before an offer is agreed.

With the children back at school and the summer holidays behind us, September often feels like the point when life gets back into a routine. But if moving home has been on your mind, there’s another reason to start thinking about it now – Christmas could be closer than you think.