You do not need to be ready to sell tomorrow to start preparing today. With sellers facing the highest September competition in 12 years, these 7 steps can put you in a much stronger position before your home ever reaches the market.

Many homeowners are waiting for autumn, lower mortgage rates or a more certain market before selling. But when everyone waits for the same moment, competition can arrive with them. Sometimes moving before the crowd creates the better opportunity.

The UK property market is not one market. Prices, buyer demand and selling conditions can change dramatically between regions, towns and even neighbouring postcodes. Before making your next move, these are the numbers that actually matter.

You have found the house. The problem? Yours is not even on the market yet. Before rushing into an offer, here is how to make yourself a stronger buyer, protect the opportunity and avoid putting your dream move at risk.