When looking at RM, use Firefox browser with property-bee add on.

Done that. What does it do? I can see it records changes to the listings, anything else?

Shows a breakdown of how long it’s been on market, (possibly some interesting) description changes and of course, every price change.

I found that quite useful 🙂

Don’t get too hung up on minor cosmetics. If you like the size, character proportions and location of the property but it needs work then offer accordingly. Cosmetics can get sorted. If things start moving forward get a good survey done. That will pick up on everything, including sealant around the bathrooms and kitchens, and if it does then use it to drop your offer further to reflect this.

If they don’t go for it then weigh up you options and either stick or twist. You’re buying a house, surveys may cost money that you don’t really want to spend but, if anything they are good bargaining tools.

We bought our place mainly based on the plot size & garage, accepting that it needed some work. Live in it for a bit, do it up, move on in five years.

It’s now eight years and counting ! All done bar the kitchen which was the least-bad room when we moved in.

The lesson is that unless you have the cash already to hand to just blitz it, it’ll take a lot longer than you think.

The lesson is that unless you have the cash already to hand to just blitz it, it’ll take a lot longer than you think.

Ain’t that the truth. 5 years on and we’re still living in magnolia hell (back bedroom and extension are done, kitchen fitted and just about done, garden IS getting done this summer, study and hall will be done and bathroom should get a mid life refresh).