The rental market is still growing, but the way properties are managed has changed. August is a useful time for landlords to review tenancies, rent processes and record-keeping.

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.

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.

The UK ranks 29th in Europe for homeownership at 65%, trailing far behind Eastern Europe’s 85%+. Despite rising deposits and affordability hurdles, the British dream of owning a home remains a powerful symbol of security. We explore why homeownership is changing and why the desire to own is still as strong as ever.