Autumn - a great time to go house hunting

With the onset of autumn and the darker nights just around the corner, don’t be tempted to go into hibernation when it comes to house hunting.

With a renewed confidence in the housing market, children firmly settled into a new school year and the focus for many on a new start for 2011 - now is the perfect time to be looking for a new home, say independent estate agents and valuers Harrison Murray.

“Autumn is a great time to get out there and see just what is available before everyone gets bogged down with thinking about Christmas,” said Harrison Murray commercial director Nick Salmon.

But while the independent estate agents and valuers are able to offer professional guidance and expertise, the advice is to ensure that you are serious about moving before embarking on the process.

“To many, buying a home can seem like a minefield,” added Nick. “Our first piece of advice would be to make sure that you are 100 per cent certain that you want to move – both emotionally and financially.

“With a clear picture in your mind, the house hunting process becomes simpler and more structured,” added Nick.

“Harrison Murray can assist you through the journey, with our instant access to up-to-the-minute mortgage deals and lender information.”

Harrison Murray tips for making house hunting as a smooth as possible.

- Sell your property through a reputable agent, preferably one who is, like Harrison Murray, a member of the Property Ombudsman scheme and the National Association of Estate Agents.

- Decide on a definite location – how far are you willing to commute, what are the local schools like, is there a GP surgery on your doorstep, is there a bus service into town?

- Always take a list of questions with you to ask at a viewing.

- Do your homework - take a drive around the area to get a feel for the people living there as well as checking out the local amenities.

- If you know it is right – move fast and put in an offer.

- Above all, liaise closely with the estate agent.

And any sellers instructing Harrison Murray from now until 30 November 2010 will have the chance to win a luxury holiday.

A £2,000 Thomas Cook holiday voucher is up for grabs when sellers or landlords choose Harrison Murray to market their home.

Homeowners instructing any of Harrison Murray’s 18 branches in Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Leicestershire and Northamptonshire for a minimum of 12 weeks sole agency, will automatically be entered into a free draw to win the fabulous prize.