Are you in a position to rent? – Remember that if you are currently living in a rental property, you may be subject to a notice period. Check your contract and with your landlord.

View as soon as possible – Good properties go quickly so don’t delay viewings.

Research the location – The right property in the wrong location is far from ideal! Ensure you research the local area before you agree to take on a property.

Viewings – Try to carry out viewings of other properties on the same day, if viewings are spread out over a long period it can become difficult to retain information for an accurate comparison.

View many properties and draw a short list of favourites. Once you think you have chosen the right one, view again at a different time of the day / week to ensure you’re happy with issues such as road noise and parking etc.

Make sure you are happy with the condition of the property.

Offers – It may be possible to negotiate from the asking price, but if the property is for you and represents fair value then be prepared to pay the asking price.