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.

It may feel far too early to think about Christmas, but moving home takes longer than many sellers expect. Starting in July can make the journey calmer and more controlled.

Artificial intelligence is starting to shape the way people sell, buy, rent and let homes. Used well, it can make the moving process smarter, faster and more connected.

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.