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.

Summer traditionally slows the property market, but September changes the rhythm. Buyers return, routines restart and activity typically rises. If moving before Christmas is even remotely on your radar, the next few weeks could matter more than you think.

Asking prices have fallen 2% in August, yet buyer demand is rising. So is the property market slowing down, or are buyers simply becoming more selective? Here is what the latest Rightmove data really means if you are thinking about moving.

With buyers enjoying more choice than at any August since 2014, your asking price has never worked harder. Price too high and you could lose your strongest opportunity before your sale has really begun. Here is how to get it right.