Seven. Considered by many a lucky number, and as a homeowner if you stay in a property for 7 years it is likely to have risen in value

Buying a home is like falling in love. You can expect to go through the same ups and downs, emotional tugs and pulls, and even similar stages.

Houses still most popular with new buyers

Zoopla House Price Index January 2023

Are you getting ready to put your property on the market? What should you be looking for in this sales pitch? Are there any red flags you should be on high alert to spot?

How often do you switch bank accounts? Or dentists? Or even hairdressers? I expect it's not that often. It is the same for estate agents. Either way, it's possible to change if you are feeling underwhelmed, disappointed or disheartened with the property sale experience. And it is actually easier than you might think.

The property purchasing process can be a rollercoaster, filled with ups and downs. Statistically, 30% of agreed property sales will fall through in the UK. No doubt you will have experienced this at some point or at least know someone else that has.

If you've ever considered moving house before and read blogs about where to start, there is almost always information about decluttering. Why?

Dataloft's central (main case) outlook scenario for house prices is of a market slowdown and mild price falls. Lower transaction volumes but better than suggested by recent low mortgage approvals data.

Following two months of falls, average new seller asking prices rose by 0.9% in January 2023. This is the largest rise in prices at this time of year since 2020 and is indicative of sellers testing the market.

Rental market - In the year to December monthly rental prices in the UK rose by 4.2%, up from 4.0% in November. The ONS Index of Private Housing Rental Prices includes pre-existing and new lets.

This year, Chinese New Year falls on the 22nd January, beginning the Year of the Rabbit. The rabbit is one of 12 zodiac animals and it represents patience, peace and prosperity.