In a market which is very competitive, it is vital that you look for any advantage when seeking a home. Below are a few suggestions to help you get ahead of the game...

1. PESTER ESTATE AGENTS.
The more an estate agent hears from prospective buyers, the more likely they will remember you when a new property becomes available. In addition, it demonstrates to the estate agent that you are a 'keen' buyer and we love nothing more than keen buyers.

2. DON'T RELY ON WEBSITES.
Any estate agent worth their salt will be telling people about a property before it is showing on property websites. If you wait to see what 'pops up' on the sites you could be missing out! Many homes are sold before they are appear online. Get registered with the estate agents (and see point 1 above!)

3. BE SPECIFIC.
Give the estate agent as much information as possible about your requirements. The more information we have, the easier it is for us to find you a suitable property. Be specific! If there are roads or locations you like or don't like, say so. If you prefer a certain style or age of home, say so. 

4. TURN UP TO YOUR APPOINTMENTS.
If you have an appointment to view a property, ensure you turn up! If you cannot make the appointment, ensure you cancel with the estate agent! Many potential buyers fail to turn up for viewings and the estate agent will not continue to keep you informed of further properties.

5. ALWAYS RESPOND TO THE ESTATE AGENT.
If an estate agent contacts you to offer you a property or to obtain your thoughts on a property you have viewed, ensure you get back to them. If you ignore their calls and emails they will soon disregard you as a credible buyer and will move on to someone else. If, however you call the agent after your viewing to let them know your feedback (positive or negative) it will help them 'fine tune' your requirements whilst demonstrating your reliability as a potential buyer. We remember buyers like this!

6. PROVIDE AS MUCH INFORMATION AS YOU CAN.
Now you have found the home of your dreams, you need to secure it! It is likely that if you like a property, someone else also does too! When making an offer, provide as much information as possible. The estate agent will need to present your offer to the owner and will want to do so in the best possible light and often it is the buyer that is most prepared that secures the property. Documents such as mortgage agreements, proof of deposit's, bank statements could all be requested. Don't forget the seller wants the most reliable, prepared and keen buyer. Make sure it is you!

Good luck with your search and we hope to find you your dream home.