Line-up a mortgage and lawyer as soon as possible – offers are more likely to be accepted if the transaction can be completed quickly.
Particularly in difficult markets, sellers may be selling because they face some sort of problem. Look for clues when visiting the property and question the estate agent.
Build networks with estate agents, who may highlight properties before they come to market and provide useful information on properties that they tried but failed to represent.
Bargains are often achievable where an otherwise great property has a key feature missing, for instance a flat without a lift or family home without a garden.
Treat pricing information carefully. Valuations are inherently subjective and market metrics often out-of-date.
