Selling your home yourself
Selling your home on your own could save you from 1.5% to 3.5% of your house's value off the commission. The process can be as involved as using a DIY kit from a firm of chartered surveyors or as easy as putting an advertisement in the paper.

Choosing an estate agent
When doing your search, keep in mind that no agent needs to have qualifications, but the RICS, ISVA and NAEA all have a code of conduct, in addition to the ombudsman scheme.

Sellers' packs
When preparing to sell it is important that you have all the appropriate documentation in hand: titles, copies of planning and regulations, the surveyor's report, etc.

Guide to buyers
It is hard to pinpoint what is going on in the mind of potential buyers. Time-wasters abound, along with phoney buyers who get their kicks by torturing sellers. But without dipping into too much psychological analysis, it is possible to decode some of their motives.

Selling by auction
The types of property most conducive to the hammer are unique, difficult to value and in great demand. On the other hand, properties may be auctioned off for a quick return on capital if they need specialist work or are in poor condition.

Speeding up your sale
If you stumble upon your dream home and still have to sell your current digs, you may lose it to another buyer without a home to get rid of. While proper planning should enable the smooth sale of your house, problems will inevitably occur.

Tips for showing your home
Setting the scene for the potential buyer is all very well, but make sure that you do not appear to be trying too hard. Brewing coffee and playing classical music are all very well, but that is not what will lure the buyer.