by Christopher Calcutt of Calcutt Maclean Wood

Realistic estate agents are putting the Champagne back on ice for a little longer.

For a while many people thought that a buoyant property market had returned. In many places prices had regained their pre-2007 levels and there was strong demand.

But it would be foolish to ignore the many other signals we have. In the market, all is not quite so rosy as it was.

Demand has slackened off; mortgage lending is at a six month low; harsh economic measures are ahead and, despite low interest rates and helpful noises from the IMF that the British economy is looking better, few are deceived into thinking that the next 12 months or so won't be a challenge for most of us.

In property it is both nicer and easier to give and receive messages of optimism and assurance.

No one ever wants to hear from a pessimistic estate agent. But then no one wants to hear from a stupid one either.

Pragmatism should never be confused with realism or objectivity. It would be wrong not to prepare sellers and ensure that they are in the best possible position to make the very most of the market we are in.

Property is sold by people with their feet on the ground, not by those with their heads in the clouds - or worse!

For buyers with cash, or enough deposit to take advantage of some very good mortgage rates at the moment, this is a great market with lots of choice and a good degree of negotiating room.

If purchasers missed the wonderful window of buying opportunity in spring 2008 now is a second chance to make a very good property investment.

For sellers it is time to become hard-nosed business people. The message is clear. Pitch your price to attract lots of viewers and undercut the competition.

Ensure that your home is always window-dressed to impress. Use a For Sale board.

Keep your eye always on your objective and try not to worry too much in the meantime. Always be available for viewings.

Encourage all offers and do not react crossly to low ones - it is not the first offer that counts, but the last!

Don't let fixtures and fittings become an issue: if your buyers want your old oven so much then give it to them - and the curtains, and the carpets if it means selling your property at an acceptable price and achieving your goal. Negotiate hard on your next purchase.

Finally, use a realistic estate agent and not a silly one. Then, at last, you will be able to open that Champagne - and we shall be happy to help you!