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.

Buyers have plenty to compare this autumn, which makes the way a home enters the market increasingly important. A strong first impression, realistic price and thoughtful presentation can all help attract the right attention.

Birmingham’s property market could be facing an interesting period of change, with new research highlighting the enormous potential for additional housing to be built around railway stations and transport hubs.

The UK mortgage market is moving once again, with a number of major lenders increasing their mortgage rates as wholesale funding costs and swap rates rise. For anyone planning to buy, sell, remortgage or invest in property, this is an important development to keep an eye on.