Buying a home is one of life’s biggest decisions. Whether it’s your first purchase or your fifth, the process can feel daunting, with plenty of pitfalls to avoid. From mortgages and surveys to legal paperwork and negotiations, there’s a lot to take on board. By arming yourself with the right information and working with a knowledgeable local estate agent, you’ll be better placed to make smart decisions and find the home that truly fits your needs.

A new £2m-plus home surcharge is billed as progressive, but its impact falls mainly on London and the South East, where many owners now face an annual bill from 2028. Critics warn it punishes long-term residents, cools the prime market and deepens regional divides, even as households weigh downsizing. Many fear a new cliff edge at £2m too.

If you’re planning to sell in early 2026, now is the time to understand the timeline, the preparation and the steps that will help you move smoothly from listing to completion.

If you’re planning to buy a home soon, you might assume the best place to start is on the property portals, Rightmove, Zoopla, or OnTheMarket. But the truth is, the savviest buyers are seeing homes long before they ever appear online. Here’s why registering with an agent puts you one step ahead.