If you’re looking to buy or sell a property an estate agent is usually able to offer advice. All estate agents are bound by the Estate Agents Act, whether or not they are registered with a governing body.

Even if you make an offer on a property make sure that it is ‘subject to contract’, this means you can pull out of the deal if there are any problems. Under the Estate Agents Act, an estate agent is legally bound to present any offer to the vendor. Unlike in Scotland, a buyer's offer is not legally binding in England and Wales, even if accepted by the seller.

Once your offer is accepted, ask for the property to be taken straight off the market for the duration of the sale. The seller may be reluctant to do this if you haven’t already sold your property. It is not in an estate agent's best interest to allow gazumping to occur as they rely on their reputation, however a determined buyer may go straight to the seller with their offer.

In a traditionally quieter time for viewing, it is important to make an impression with those that do view so that they can see the full potential of the property they may be considering buying. There is currently more property available to fewer buyers and presentation makes a huge difference when viewing.

Some of the biggest issues to deter buyers are clutter and colour schemes so the best initial advice before marketing is to de-clutter and de-personalise rooms. If you don't use it, don't want it or don't like it any more, be ruthless and throw it out. Give rooms a makeover and re-emulsion where necessary to make them light, airy and more spacious. This provides a more neutral canvas to appeal to a wider range of buyers and allows them the opportunity to mentally re-invent the property in their own style, where appropriate, especially in more modern homes. If there is a very definite style or period with distinctive features that

As the nights draw in make the most of the appeal of cosy lighting and accentuate feature fireplaces with a warm welcoming glow. It may be an idea to dress a family house early for Christmas and emulate the festive family gathering atmosphere and winter warmth appeal that can be so inviting. Don't forget the outside and tidy up the garden with weeding, cutting back and deadheading whilst adding a colourful pot

Always ensure that your agent gives you accurate and honest viewing feedback and that you listen and act upon that information.